简体中文
The United States on Wednesday urged all groups in the Central African Republic (CAR) to "break the cycle of violent retribution" to lead the country out of sectarian violence.
State Department spokeswoman Jennifer Psaki voiced "deep concern" about recent sectarian attacks against both Muslims and Christians in the country, in particular in the town of Boda where more than 75 people were killed in the past few days.
"This sectarian violence must end," she said in a statement. "The people of CAR must seize the opportunity afforded by its newly appointed transitional leadership and a strong level of international support to end the present crisis and move toward a stable and peaceful society."
"This will not be successful unless all groups look toward the future and break the cycle of violent retribution for past events," she added.
The African country, rich in gold, diamonds and uranium, was plunged into chaos and violence after mainly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power in March 2013. The rebels' engagement in looting, raping and killing for months had sparked reprisals by Christian militia and allies of ousted President Francois Bozize.
The violence has displaced about one million people across the country, with some 85,000 fleeing to neighboring countries. France and the African Union have deployed troops there.
The CAR had a new transitional president and prime minister last month after their predecessors stepped down following months of violence that had killed thousands of people.
Psaki voiced support for the efforts of the CAR's transition government to end the conflict and re-establish a "functioning state."
