Mali Recalls Its Ambassador from Algeria

Mali has recalled its ambassador to Algeria after accusing the latter of "interference in its internal affairs and meeting with rebel Tuareg officials," deepening tensions between the two neighboring countries. The Malian military council stated that it summoned Ambassador Mahamani Amadou Maïga from Algeria "for immediate consultation," according to a message from the Malian embassy to the Algerian Foreign Ministry. Algeria has been the main mediator in peace efforts between Mali and the Tuareg rebels, whose separatist campaign in the north of the country has led to an armed conflict for more than a decade.