Comoran conference proposed, despite fighting

The French Foreign Ministry highlighted a proposed inter-island conference among the Comoros Islands under the auspices of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), amid concerns over new fighting on the breakaway island of Anjouan.

Militias representing Anjouan's president and his former prime minister have been engaged in clashes since Saturday. The Foreign Ministry's spokesperson characterized the situation there as "serious," adding "France is calling for an immediate halt to the fighting and is asking the various protagonists to commit themselves to the path of dialogue and reconciliation desired by the vast majority of the people in Anjouan."

The spokesperson stated that the idea of a conference was approved by the Comoran people, including those on Anjouan.

The French Foreign Ministry also called on Saturday for those involved in the situation to use restraint as acting Comoran President Tedjidine Ben Said Massonde has.

The Comoros Islands won their independence from France in 1975, and Anjouan broke away from the others in 1997, a move that was condemned by regional organizations, including the OAU. "Convening such a conference could lay the groundwork for reviving economic development which is essential," the spokesperson said.

The Arab League has also worked to maintain the unity of the islands.