The Portuguese foreign minister, Jaime Gama, has met the leader of the Guinea Bissau rebels, General Ansumane Mane, in an effort to promote peace talks following the upsurge of fighting there.

Mr Gama flew into Bissau airport, which has been under rebel control since the revolt began in June.

No details have been given about their talks, after which Mr Gama was due to meet President Vieira.

The rebels have declared a forty-eight hour ceasefire to allow Mr Vieira to explain what he intends to do about their demands for peace, including the withdrawal of foreign troops from Senegal and Guinea.

Fighting resumed a week ago when the rebels -- mainly army veterans angered by poor pay and conditions -- advanced towards the presidential palace.