Bolivian Morales starts talks with opposition governors

Bolivian President Evo Morales has started talks with opposition governors on a roadmap for peace. Both sides hope to end a political crisis that had turned violent, leaving at least 17 people dead so far.

Evo Morales finally sat down to negotiate with opposition governors on Thursday, near the central Bolivian city of Cochabamba.

Both sides say they hope to solve the political crisis that has been afflicting the country for three weeks.

Opposition leaders say now is the time to put an end to the turmoil.

Mario Cossio, Opposition Governor Tarija Province, said, "There is a desire to turn this into an opportunity to construct a national agreement, which Bolivia needs and Bolivians want, in order to return peace to our people and stability to Bolivia."