The Ethiopian government says it has set up a seven-member committee to hold peace talks with Tigrayan forces in a bid to end the 19-month civil war. 

It is to be chaired by the country's deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Demeke Mekonen. 

Ethiopia's Justice Minister Gediwon Timothios - who is also a member of the committee - said the governing party would only agree to the African Union leading the peace process.

Correspondents say this is a potential stumbling block for negotiations as Tigrayan forces have criticised the AU's efforts and have said they want President Uhuru Kenyatta to mediate.