Chad: EU decision to launch peacekeeping mission lauded

The head of the U.N.'s refugee agency has welcomed an EU decision to send 3,000 peacekeepers to eastern Chad, saying it would contribute to efforts to help civilians fleeing violence in neighboring Sudan. "It is a key instrument to allow for the security of the refugees ... and for the possibility of a more effective humanitarian operation," said Antonio Guterres, the U.N. high commissioner for refugees.