Bolivian President Evo Morales urges separatist to sign peace deal today

Evo Morales, the Bolivian president, has begun talks with rebel state governors in an attempt to end political turmoil that sparked violent protests last week.

Several people were killed as anti-Morales protesters battled the president's supporters in four opposition-controlled provinces seeking greater autonomy last week.

"This may be the last chance to solve the country's problems in peace," warned  Mario Cossio, governor of the southern Tarija province, as he arrived for the talks in the city of Cochabamba on Thursday.

Roman Catholic church officials and international envoys, including Jose Miguel Insulza, secretary-general of the Organisation of American States, are to observe the talks.

Ivan Canelas, a government spokesman, said "the government thinks an accord in four or five days of continuous work is possible if there is sincere will for dialogue". 

Morales has accused the Catholic church of siding with the governors and the US, which he says is inciting protests against him.