Three days after fighting broke out in Guinea Bissau, mediators are due to have a first meeting with the leaders of mutinous soldiers.

Parliamentary representatives are said to have already met President Vieira.

The parliamentary speaker was quoted as saying the purpose of the talks was to find a peaceful solution to the crisis, which was triggered by the sacking of the army chief of staff, Ansoumane Mane, who's now leading the mutiny.

On Tuesday, rebel soldiers in the capital, Bissau, took control of the international airport after troops guarding it changed sides.

Neighbouring Guinea has sent troops to help government forces who are trying to crush the revolt.

Another neighbour, Senegal, is also sending troops.