Bush calls for push towards Angola ceasefire

US President George W Bush is calling on Angola's government to pursue a ceasefire in its 26-year civil war.

US President George W Bush is calling on Angola's government to pursue a ceasefire in its 26-year civil war.

His call comes days after the death of Angolan rebel leader Jonas Savimbi.

Mr Bush urged the Angolan president to seek peace after meeting with the leaders of Angola, Botswana and Mozambique.

As well as discussing Angola's continuing troubles, they talked about a regional strategy to fight the spread of AIDS.

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Mr Bush said he also asked the presidents to join an effort to get the World Bank to provide half its assistance to poor nations in the form of grants, rather than loans.

Savimbi, leader of the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) died in a gun battle with Angolan soldiers last Friday.

Mr Bush issued a statement saying he urged Angolan President Eduardo dos Santos to quickly achieve a ceasefire "and develop Angola's vast wealth to the benefit of the Angolan people".

Mr Dos Santos told reporters he assured Mr Bush that his government would do so, but the matter depends heavily on "the political will of those who are fighting", meaning UNITA forces.

Mr Bush did not say who should initiate the cease-fire, but said: "President dos Santos has it within his power to end 26 years of fighting by reaching out to all Angolans willing to lay down their arms. Angolans deserve no less."

AP