International mediators suspend talks in Madagascar, say politicians unwilling to compromise

International mediators suspend Madagascar talks

ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar — International mediators say they are indefinitely suspending negotiations in Madagascar because the Indian Ocean island’s politicians are blocking progress.

The talks are aimed at restoring constitutional order and involve representatives of military-backed leader Andry Rajoelina as well as the president he ousted in March.

African Union envoy Ablasse Ouedraogo says the two sides are unwilling to compromise.

Rajoelina has withdrawn his negotiators over objections to the possible return of ousted President Marc Ravalomanana.

Mediators including the U.N. and the AU as well as the Southern African Development Community and a union of French-speaking nations said Tuesday they were suspending the talks.