Kidal

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  Mali Rebels Begin Talks to Mull Peace Deal

  Mali's Tuareg-led rebels met today in the northeast of the country to decide whether to sign a peace deal already accepted by the government and smaller armed groups, a participant told AFP.

• 'Around 50 Soldiers Killed in Recent Fighting in Mali's North'

  Malian Defence Minister Soumeylou Boubeye Maiga has said around 50 soldiers had been killed during recent fighting with armed rebels in the northern desert town of Kidal.

• Malian Army Flees Kidal Amid Rebel Fighting

  Malian soldiers retreated from the northern town of Kidal on Wednesday after heavy gunbattles with ethnic Tuareg separatists, a major setback for the army less than a year after its highly unpopular return to the rebel stronghold.

• Mali 'At War With Terrorists' After Dozens Die in Clashes: PM

  Mali's Prime Minister Moussa Mara warned Sunday the country was "at war" with terrorists in the northern city of Kidal, after clashes between separatist militants and the army left dozens dead.

• Mali: Tuareg Rebels Take 30 Hostages in North

  Mali officials say separatist rebels killed eight soldiers, stormed a government building and took 30 people hostage in an assault on the northern city of Kidal.