Deputy President Jacob Zuma, the facilitator of the Burundi peace process, has expressed confidence that outstanding issues on the implementation of the cease-fire agreement between the Burundi government and main rebel group will soon be concluded. Zuma said given the fact that discussions were frank and focused, the two delegations managed to cover all the proposals.

The Deputy President was speaking after the conclusion of the Burundi power sharing talks that were held at the KwaMaritane Game Reserve in Rustenburg, North West, which started on Tuesday and ended on Friday, with all parties expressing satisfaction with the progress achieved. The talks were between the Transitional Government of Burundi, led by President Domitien Ndayizeye and the CNDD-FDD, led by Pierre Nkurunziza.

In terms of the ceasefire agreement signed in December 2002, the CNDD-FDD is to participate in the transitional institutions of Burundi such as the government, national assembly and security apparatus.

The implementation talks were aimed at working out the areas of participation and integration.

Lakela Kaunda, Zuma’s spokesperson, said the facilitator would arrange for the outstanding issues to be discussed further, ahead of a Regional Summit, which will be held at a date to be advised by the Great Lakes Regional Leadership.

The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment and determination to work together to effectively implement the peace process. – BuaNews.