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Lifting of Sanctions Against Mali Hits a Snag

VOA News

   The lifting of crippling economic sanctions against Mali by a bloc of
   15-West African countries will come later than first thought, even
   after the appointment of Mali's newtransitionalcivilian prime minister,
   MoctarOuane.

   ECOWASimposedsanctions on Mali shortly after last month'scoupthat
   oustedPresidentIbrahim Boubacar Keita. The groupsaid they would lift
   sanctions after civilian leaders were appointed during the transition
   period.

   But theFrench News Pressreports a sticking point with West African
   leaders may be junta leader ColonelAssimiGoita'sappointment as the
   transitional vice president.

   Goita was among the junta leaders involvedin the coup.

   ECOWAS envoy and Nigerian ex-president Goodluck Jonathan said in a
   statement that the military leadershaveyet to satisfy ECOWAS'demandthat
   acivilianbe named asvice president.

   West African leaders are expected tomakeadecisionon their next step
   after Jonathan submits a formal report to the leader of ECOWAS, which
   will be reviewed by the member countries.

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