United Nations Security Council envoys are awaiting agreement from Burundi’s government to pay a visit to the country as part of a diplomatic effort to pull the nation away from the brink of war.
The United States (US) during its presidency of the Security Council proposed a trip to the east African country but the mission never materialized.
“We think it’s very important for the Security Council to travel to Burundi and are engaging to try to make that happen,” said US Deputy Ambassador David Pressman.
“The situation is in flux, it’s dangerous and merits the full attention of the council.”
Burundi descended into violence in April after President Pierre Nkurunziza announced that he would seek a third term in office. He went on to win the elections in July.
Hundreds have been killed and more than 200000 others have fled the country, and the UN fears that the violence could lead to mass atrocities.
Burundi’s government has yet to confirm whether it will attend a new round of talks with the opposition.
