Maputo, Mozambique — Andrea Riccardi, the founder of the "Santo Egidio" Italian religious community, Monday said the attempt by Renamo parliamentarians to disrupt the working sessions would not kill the spirit of dialogue which, he claimed, has characterised the country since the signing of the Rome Peace Agreement in 1992.

Riccardi was one of the official mediators in the two years of talks between the Mozambican government and Renamo which culminated in the peace accord.

For two consecutive days last week, Renamo members attempted to halt parliamentary sessions by thumping on the tables, and banging them with their name plaques as well as stamping their feet.

They also brought into the chamber whistles, kazoos and similar instruments.

Father Riccardi made the statements Monday when he addressed journalists moments following his arrival at Maputo International Airport.

Riccardi said:"I'm convinced that Mozambique has started a parliamentary system which will stick to dialogue rules arising from the Rome spirit".

During his six-day visit to Mozambique, Riccardi would deliver a speech in parliament on peace and dialogue, meet Mozambican officials, politicians, and travel to the central and northern provinces.

Among the purposes of this visit is to study the best ways to aid the victims of the current flooding in central Mozambique.