Mediation helping resolve crisis: Morales

Bolivian President Evo Morales says mediation by South American leaders is having a positive effect in a political crisis between his central government and eastern provinces demanding greater autonomy.

The 12-nation Union of South American Nations is pledging to help prevent political collapse in Bolivia, after deadly protests swept eastern Bolivia this month as anti-Morales groups blockaded highways, sacked government offices and seized gas pipelines.

Mr Morales told reporters in New York that he is “very confident” the mediation will be effective.

Mr Morales is offering to include eastern provinces’ autonomy demands in his proposed new constitution.