As many as eight <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-envoy-doubts-afghan-talibans-desire-for-peace-185562">Taliban </a>militants were killed in a clash with security forces in Herat province in western <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-ceasefire-push-in-focus-in-us-taliban-talks-185000">Afghanistan</a>, officials said on Sunday.

Ziarat Shah Abed, a top commander in Herat, was quoted by TOLOnews as saying that the skirmish occurred in Shayan village of Obe district in Herat when the Taliban launched an attack at an army check-post.

Abed added that eight terrorists were killed and 15 others were injured in the clash. He confirmed that there were no casualties among the armed forces and civilians.

The Afghan security forces conduct regular operations in various parts of the war-torn country in an effort to dispel the militants from the affected areas.

As many as eight Taliban militants were killed in a clash with security forces in Herat province in western Afghanistan, officials said on Sunday. Ziarat Shah Abed, a top commander in Herat, was quoted by TOLOnews as saying that the skirmish occurred in Shayan village of Obe district in Herat when the Taliban launched an attack at an army check-post.

As many as eight Taliban militants were killed in a clash with security forces in Herat province in western Afghanistan, officials said on Sunday. Ziarat Shah Abed, a top commander in Herat, was quoted by TOLOnews as saying that the skirmish occurred in Shayan village of Obe district in Herat when the Taliban launched an attack at an army check-post. Abed added that eight terrorists were killed and 15 others were injured in the clash. He confirmed that there were no casualties among the armed forces and civilians. The Afghan security forces conduct regular operations in various parts of the war-torn country in an effort to dispel the militants from the affected areas.

Eight Taliban terrorists killed in clash with security forces in Afghanistan

Pakistan on Saturday welcomed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-has-discussed-firing-us-federal-reserve-chairman-powell-report-185879">President Donald Trump</a>'s decision to slash <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/presence-of-us-forces-in-syria-wrong-and-illogical-move-from-start-iran-185851">US troop</a> numbers in Afghanistan, calling it a step towards peace in the war-torn nation.

The decision to pull around half of the 14,000 American troops in Afghanistan has stunned and dismayed diplomats and officials in Kabul, and comes amid a renewed push for talks with the Taliban to end the 17-year war.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said the move was "a step forward" in the peace effort.

"The US reviewed its (Afghanistan) policy and then talks were held in Abu Dhabi, then there was progress in the talks and things are moving ahead," Qureshi told reporters in the central city of Multan.

"We expect that things will move further."

Qureshi added that Pakistan had released some Taliban detainees to help facilitate the peace talks and to "create an enabling environment".

There has been no official comment from the Taliban, but one of the militant group's senior commanders on Friday welcomed the decision.

The Taliban already control vast amounts of territory and are causing significant Afghan troop casualties.

The talks in Abu Dhabi earlier this week, with peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad leading the US side, were also attended by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.

The UAE's state-run WAM news agency has said a new round would be held in Abu Dhabi "to complete the Afghanistan reconciliation process", without providing further details.

Pakistan on Saturday welcomed President Donald Trump's decision to slash US troop numbers in Afghanistan, calling it a step towards peace in the war-torn nation.

Pakistan on Saturday welcomed President Donald Trump's decision to slash US troop numbers in Afghanistan, calling it a step towards peace in the war-torn nation. The decision to pull around half of the 14,000 American troops in Afghanistan has stunned and dismayed diplomats and officials in Kabul, and comes amid a renewed push for talks with the Taliban to end the 17-year war. Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said the move was "a step forward" in the peace effort. "The US reviewed its (Afghanistan) policy and then talks were held in Abu Dhabi, then there was progress in the talks and things are moving ahead," Qureshi told reporters in the central city of Multan. "We expect that things will move further." Qureshi added that Pakistan had released some Taliban detainees to help facilitate the peace talks and to "create an enabling environment". There has been no official comment from the Taliban, but one of the militant group's senior commanders on Friday welcomed the decision. The Taliban already control vast amounts of territory and are causing significant Afghan troop casualties. The talks in Abu Dhabi earlier this week, with peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad leading the US side, were also attended by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. The UAE's state-run WAM news agency has said a new round would be held in Abu Dhabi "to complete the Afghanistan reconciliation process", without providing further details.

US troop withdrawal 'step forward' in Afghan peace effort: Pak foreign minister Qureshi

Afghans are facing water shortages because of the persistent drought that has been ravaging the country this year.

In many places including Kabul, the capital city, local residents have to carry containers to get water from water points several times a day. However, the basic amount of daily water still cannot be guaranteed.

"Water used to be available 24 hours every day, but now it is only available three to four hours. More than 500 families gather here to get water during these few hours," said Sayed Ali, a local resident.

In the past year, the amount of precipitation dropped by more than 50 per cent compared with that of average levels in most places of Afghanistan. Sixteen out of 34 provinces are suffering from drought.

According to the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority, about two million Afghans have been affected by the drought.

Years of conflict has damaged the country's infrastructure, making the situation even worse.

"Afghanistan lacks infrastructure. The construction of water projects including dams has been slow. So when water flows past Afghanistan, there is no way to store it and just let it flow right into neighbouring countries," said Aslam Sayas, the deputy director of Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority.

Local media say the drought has caused a fall in crop production in the western and northern parts of Afghanistan, and people in these areas are on the edge of famine.

A report from the United Nations also claims that Afghanistan is in need of at least 115 million US&nbsp;dollars in humanitarian aid.

Afghans are facing water shortages because of the persistent drought that has been ravaging the country this year. In many places including Kabul, the capital city, local residents have to carry containers to get water from water points several times a day.

Afghans are facing water shortages because of the persistent drought that has been ravaging the country this year. In many places including Kabul, the capital city, local residents have to carry containers to get water from water points several times a day. However, the basic amount of daily water still cannot be guaranteed. "Water used to be available 24 hours every day, but now it is only available three to four hours. More than 500 families gather here to get water during these few hours," said Sayed Ali, a local resident. In the past year, the amount of precipitation dropped by more than 50 per cent compared with that of average levels in most places of Afghanistan. Sixteen out of 34 provinces are suffering from drought. According to the Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority, about two million Afghans have been affected by the drought. Years of conflict has damaged the country's infrastructure, making the situation even worse. "Afghanistan lacks infrastructure. The construction of water projects including dams has been slow. So when water flows past Afghanistan, there is no way to store it and just let it flow right into neighbouring countries," said Aslam Sayas, the deputy director of Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority. Local media say the drought has caused a fall in crop production in the western and northern parts of Afghanistan, and people in these areas are on the edge of famine. A report from the United Nations also claims that Afghanistan is in need of at least 115 million US dollars in humanitarian aid.

Afghans facing worsening water shortage due to drought

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-troops-withdrawal-will-not-have-security-impact-on-afghanistan-presidential-spokesman-185677">Afghanistan</a> has been mourning the death this week of one of its most treasured celebrities, comedian Hanif Hamgam, known for ridiculing the powerful in a region where poking fun at warlords is no laughing matter.

Hamgam's daily show "Zang Khatar" (The Alarm Bell), which aired on<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nothing-to-provide-says-pentagon-to-wion-on-reports-of-us-troops-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-185637"> Afghanistan</a>'s largest private TV channel Tolo from 2007-2013, was so popular that squadron leaders on the front line against the Taliban would demand televisions so as not to miss an episode.

"After the fall of the Taliban (in 2001) and freedom of media, his show was the first that critically looked at important issues," his old friend and Zang Khatar colleague Nehmat Haidari told AFP.&nbsp;

"He had a big impact on society, even people in remote areas knew him," he says sadly.

A 56-year-old graduate of Kabul Theatre and Art School, Hamgam died on Saturday from a long illness.

Politicians, artists, civil servants and fans risked security fears on Monday to attend a religious ceremony marking his death in Kabul and express their condolences to his family. &nbsp;

A large portrait of his round face, thick beard and mischievous eyes hung on the mosque's facade.&nbsp;

On the poster, an old Persian poem reads: "The man does not die in death... Once a name is popular, it never dies easily."

The commander of the Kabul garrison, Murad Ali Murad, arrived amid shouting sirens and an imposing military escort to praise a man who "fought through comedy".

"All the government officials were watching Zang Khatar and were trying to fix the flaws brought up by the show," he said.&nbsp;

"We have lost one of our best comedians," said director Salim Shaheen, who became a hit at Cannes in 2017 for his starring role in the documentary "Nothingwood", and who directed Hamgam in his film career.

Hamgam's show awakened many people to their rights, Shaheen — known as the "Afghan Spielberg" — continued.&nbsp;

"Zang Khatar would also target powerful and corrupt officials. (Hamgam) was on the front line... His life was threatened several times by such officials, but he strongly fought them all off. The legacy of such men lives on."

A need to laugh&nbsp;

The fall of the Taliban and the influx of funds from the international community paved the way for a media surge in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

In a country rife with corruption and battered by war, many turn not to officials or MPs for justice but to the media and satire such as Hamgam's.

According to the Afghanistan Media Support Center, NAI, the country now has 100 television channels, 250 radio stations and nearly 200 newspapers, enjoying better freedom of expression than some of its neighbours.&nbsp;

"In many countries, there aren't many jokes directly targeting senior officials but here almost all our jokes are political," says Nabi Fakhri, another of Hamgam's long-time associates.&nbsp;

Hamgam spared no one: not the Taliban, American military, politicians or businessmen — even his own boss.

"We would get threatening calls after each show, but we were determined to target them with our comedy," Fakhri said. "That is how we tried to solve people's problems."

"We need entertainment in Afghan society, we need comedy," said Shir Khan, a comedian on Arezo TV, a local television channel.

The people of Afghanistan need to laugh more than anything else, agreed Seyar Mateen, one of the comedians starring in Tolo TV's new comedy show Shabake Khanda, and Hamgam's son-in-law.

"He was making people laugh... and some cry for laughter."

Afghanistan has been mourning the death this week of one of its most treasured celebrities, comedian Hanif Hamgam, known for ridiculing the powerful in a region where poking fun at warlords is no laughing matter.

Afghanistan has been mourning the death this week of one of its most treasured celebrities, comedian Hanif Hamgam, known for ridiculing the powerful in a region where poking fun at warlords is no laughing matter. Hamgam's daily show "Zang Khatar" (The Alarm Bell), which aired on Afghanistan's largest private TV channel Tolo from 2007-2013, was so popular that squadron leaders on the front line against the Taliban would demand televisions so as not to miss an episode. "After the fall of the Taliban (in 2001) and freedom of media, his show was the first that critically looked at important issues," his old friend and Zang Khatar colleague Nehmat Haidari told AFP. "He had a big impact on society, even people in remote areas knew him," he says sadly. A 56-year-old graduate of Kabul Theatre and Art School, Hamgam died on Saturday from a long illness. Politicians, artists, civil servants and fans risked security fears on Monday to attend a religious ceremony marking his death in Kabul and express their condolences to his family. A large portrait of his round face, thick beard and mischievous eyes hung on the mosque's facade. On the poster, an old Persian poem reads: "The man does not die in death... Once a name is popular, it never dies easily." The commander of the Kabul garrison, Murad Ali Murad, arrived amid shouting sirens and an imposing military escort to praise a man who "fought through comedy". "All the government officials were watching Zang Khatar and were trying to fix the flaws brought up by the show," he said. "We have lost one of our best comedians," said director Salim Shaheen, who became a hit at Cannes in 2017 for his starring role in the documentary "Nothingwood", and who directed Hamgam in his film career. Hamgam's show awakened many people to their rights, Shaheen — known as the "Afghan Spielberg" — continued. "Zang Khatar would also target powerful and corrupt officials. (Hamgam) was on the front line... His life was threatened several times by such officials, but he strongly fought them all off. The legacy of such men lives on." A need to laugh The fall of the Taliban and the influx of funds from the international community paved the way for a media surge in Afghanistan. In a country rife with corruption and battered by war, many turn not to officials or MPs for justice but to the media and satire such as Hamgam's. According to the Afghanistan Media Support Center, NAI, the country now has 100 television channels, 250 radio stations and nearly 200 newspapers, enjoying better freedom of expression than some of its neighbours. "In many countries, there aren't many jokes directly targeting senior officials but here almost all our jokes are political," says Nabi Fakhri, another of Hamgam's long-time associates. Hamgam spared no one: not the Taliban, American military, politicians or businessmen — even his own boss. "We would get threatening calls after each show, but we were determined to target them with our comedy," Fakhri said. "That is how we tried to solve people's problems." "We need entertainment in Afghan society, we need comedy," said Shir Khan, a comedian on Arezo TV, a local television channel. The people of Afghanistan need to laugh more than anything else, agreed Seyar Mateen, one of the comedians starring in Tolo TV's new comedy show Shabake Khanda, and Hamgam's son-in-law. "He was making people laugh... and some cry for laughter."

Afghanistan mourns death of comedian Hanif Hamgam, who mocked the powerful

The NATO alliance stressed its continued commitment to its support mission in Afghanistan on Friday as Washington prepared to withdraw thousands of US troops.

NATO's spokeswoman Oana Lungescu would not comment on US President Donald Trump's plan to bring home a chunk of the 14,000 US troops deployed in Afghanistan.

But she said NATO foreign ministers met as recently as this month to express "steadfast commitment to ensuring long-term security and stability in Afghanistan."

"Our engagement is important to ensure that Afghanistan never again becomes a safe haven for international terrorists who could threaten us at home," she said.

Some of the US forces deployed in Afghanistan are part of the NATO-led Resolute Support mission, training and advising the local Afghan forces fighting Taliban rebels.

Others are part of a US-led counter-terrorism mission, and it is not clear from initial reports which of the troops will be the first to come home.

A US official told AFP that a "decision has been made. There will be a significant withdrawal."

Separately, the Wall Street Journal and other US media reported that more than 7,000 troops would return.

"We have seen the reports. For any comments, I refer you to the US authorities," Lungescu said.

Trump has often been at loggerheads with fellow NATO leaders, accusing European allies like Germany of not pulling their weight in terms of defence spending.

'European anxiety'

But in July, at a NATO summit, all members agreed to extend funding for the embattled Afghan security forces until 2024.

Brussels-based expert Ian Lesser said European NATO members may be surprised by Trump's tactics but not his overall intention to reduce troops in Afghanistan, which he made clear after becoming president.

"Many within the alliance frankly are there because the United States has pressed them to be there, but, left to their own decision making, would probably have left," Lesser told AFP.

Lesser, who heads the European office of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, said the resignation on Thursday of US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis will also cause more unease.&nbsp;

"Within an administration that has not produced a lot of predictability, General Mattis was seen as something of an anchor," Lesser said.

"And so his departure will only increase European anxiety about the future of US strategy in Europe but also on Europe's periphery in places like Syria," he added.

Syria and the broader Middle East are central to EU concerns about terrorism and migration.

Lungescu stressed how important the former Marine Corps general had been to NATO.

"Secretary Mattis has made a key contribution to keeping NATO strong and ready to deal with the significant security challenges we face," the NATO spokeswoman said.

"He is widely respected as a soldier and a diplomat... We are grateful for the iron-clad commitment of the United States to NATO. US leadership keeps our transatlantic alliance strong."

The NATO alliance stressed its continued commitment to its support mission in Afghanistan on Friday as Washington prepared to withdraw thousands of US troops. NATO's spokeswoman Oana Lungescu would not comment on US President Donald Trump's plan to bring home a chunk of the 14,000 US troops deployed in Afghanistan.

The NATO alliance stressed its continued commitment to its support mission in Afghanistan on Friday as Washington prepared to withdraw thousands of US troops. NATO's spokeswoman Oana Lungescu would not comment on US President Donald Trump's plan to bring home a chunk of the 14,000 US troops deployed in Afghanistan. But she said NATO foreign ministers met as recently as this month to express "steadfast commitment to ensuring long-term security and stability in Afghanistan." "Our engagement is important to ensure that Afghanistan never again becomes a safe haven for international terrorists who could threaten us at home," she said. Some of the US forces deployed in Afghanistan are part of the NATO-led Resolute Support mission, training and advising the local Afghan forces fighting Taliban rebels. Others are part of a US-led counter-terrorism mission, and it is not clear from initial reports which of the troops will be the first to come home. A US official told AFP that a "decision has been made. There will be a significant withdrawal." Separately, the Wall Street Journal and other US media reported that more than 7,000 troops would return. "We have seen the reports. For any comments, I refer you to the US authorities," Lungescu said. Trump has often been at loggerheads with fellow NATO leaders, accusing European allies like Germany of not pulling their weight in terms of defence spending. 'European anxiety' But in July, at a NATO summit, all members agreed to extend funding for the embattled Afghan security forces until 2024. Brussels-based expert Ian Lesser said European NATO members may be surprised by Trump's tactics but not his overall intention to reduce troops in Afghanistan, which he made clear after becoming president. "Many within the alliance frankly are there because the United States has pressed them to be there, but, left to their own decision making, would probably have left," Lesser told AFP. Lesser, who heads the European office of the German Marshall Fund of the United States, said the resignation on Thursday of US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis will also cause more unease. "Within an administration that has not produced a lot of predictability, General Mattis was seen as something of an anchor," Lesser said. "And so his departure will only increase European anxiety about the future of US strategy in Europe but also on Europe's periphery in places like Syria," he added. Syria and the broader Middle East are central to EU concerns about terrorism and migration. Lungescu stressed how important the former Marine Corps general had been to NATO. "Secretary Mattis has made a key contribution to keeping NATO strong and ready to deal with the significant security challenges we face," the NATO spokeswoman said. "He is widely respected as a soldier and a diplomat... We are grateful for the iron-clad commitment of the United States to NATO. US leadership keeps our transatlantic alliance strong."

NATO stresses Afghan commitment despite US withdrawal

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-troops-withdrawal-will-not-have-security-impact-on-afghanistan-presidential-spokesman-185677">US troops withdrawal 'will not have security impact' on Afghanistan: Presidential spokesman</a>

In the first official response, Afghanistan has stated that the withdrawal of US troops from the war-torn country will not affect its security, presidential spokesman Haroon Chakhansuri was quoted by news agency AFP on Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/markets-end-in-red-as-sensex-plunges-nearly-700-points-185672">Sensex plunges nearly 700 points amid fears of US government shutdown</a>

Benchmark equity indices witnessed heavy selloff Friday after investors booked profits in realty, banking, IT and auto bluechips amid weak signals from global markets.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/uae-to-deposit-3-billion-in-pakistan-central-bank-185664">UAE to deposit $3 billion in Pakistan central bank</a>

The United Arab Emirates will deposit $3 billion in the central bank of Pakistan to help "enhance liquidity" as the country struggles with a balance of payments crisis, state media said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/order-to-monitor-computers-exists-since-2009-arun-jaitley-185675">Order to monitor computers exists since 2009: Arun Jaitley</a>

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Friday Jaitley on Friday responded to Congress leader Anand Sharma's remark over Home Affairs Ministry's move to allow ten agencies to monitor any computer.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-army-pauses-operations-in-north-in-rare-conciliatory-action-185678">Myanmar army pauses operations in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-army-pauses-operations-in-north-in-rare-conciliatory-action-185678">north</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-army-pauses-operations-in-north-in-rare-conciliatory-action-185678"> in rare conciliatory action</a>

The Myanmar military on Friday announced a more than four-month cessation of its activities in northern areas where it is fighting ethnic minority insurgents, in what appeared to be a rare conciliatory move aimed at kick-starting peace talks.

US troops withdrawal 'will not have security impact' on Afghanistan: Presidential spokesman In the first official response, Afghanistan has stated that the withdrawal of US troops from the war-torn country will not affect its security, presidential spokesman Haroon Chakhansuri was quoted by news agency AFP on Friday.

US troops withdrawal 'will not have security impact' on Afghanistan: Presidential spokesman In the first official response, Afghanistan has stated that the withdrawal of US troops from the war-torn country will not affect its security, presidential spokesman Haroon Chakhansuri was quoted by news agency AFP on Friday. Sensex plunges nearly 700 points amid fears of US government shutdown Benchmark equity indices witnessed heavy selloff Friday after investors booked profits in realty, banking, IT and auto bluechips amid weak signals from global markets. UAE to deposit $3 billion in Pakistan central bank The United Arab Emirates will deposit $3 billion in the central bank of Pakistan to help "enhance liquidity" as the country struggles with a balance of payments crisis, state media said. Order to monitor computers exists since 2009: Arun Jaitley Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Friday Jaitley on Friday responded to Congress leader Anand Sharma's remark over Home Affairs Ministry's move to allow ten agencies to monitor any computer. Myanmar army pauses operations in north in rare conciliatory action The Myanmar military on Friday announced a more than four-month cessation of its activities in northern areas where it is fighting ethnic minority insurgents, in what appeared to be a rare conciliatory move aimed at kick-starting peace talks.

News brief: Big stories of the day

In the first official response, Afghanistan has stated that the withdrawal of US troops from the war-torn country will not affect its security, presidential spokesman Haroon Chakhansuri was quoted by news agency AFP on Friday.&nbsp;

The spokesman added that in the last four years the Afghans have been in full control of the situation. &nbsp;

"If they withdraw from Afghanistan it will not have a security impact because in the last four and half years the Afghans have been in full control," Chakhansuri said via social media.&nbsp;

A day after US President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of forces from Syria, media reports from the US said that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nothing-to-provide-says-pentagon-to-wion-on-reports-of-us-troops-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-185637">Washington will be withdrawing 7,000 troops from Afghanistan</a>.&nbsp;

According to a New York Times report, "the Trump administration is withdrawing roughly 7,000 troops from Afghanistan in the coming months."&nbsp;

The Wall Street Journal was the first to report the development.

The Pentagon is, however, mum on the development. In a reply to WION's question, Pentagon said, "have nothing to provide."

The development can have a major impact in the region especially with India playing an important developmental role in the war-torn country.

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

In the first official response, Afghanistan has stated that the withdrawal of US troops from the war-torn country will not affect its security, presidential spokesman Haroon Chakhansuri was quoted by news agency AFP on Friday.

In the first official response, Afghanistan has stated that the withdrawal of US troops from the war-torn country will not affect its security, presidential spokesman Haroon Chakhansuri was quoted by news agency AFP on Friday. The spokesman added that in the last four years the Afghans have been in full control of the situation. "If they withdraw from Afghanistan it will not have a security impact because in the last four and half years the Afghans have been in full control," Chakhansuri said via social media. A day after US President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of forces from Syria, media reports from the US said that Washington will be withdrawing 7,000 troops from Afghanistan. According to a New York Times report, "the Trump administration is withdrawing roughly 7,000 troops from Afghanistan in the coming months." The Wall Street Journal was the first to report the development. The Pentagon is, however, mum on the development. In a reply to WION's question, Pentagon said, "have nothing to provide." The development can have a major impact in the region especially with India playing an important developmental role in the war-torn country. (With inputs from AFP)

US troops withdrawal 'will not have security impact' on Afghanistan: Presidential spokesman

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indra-2018-after-land-exercise-india-russia-naval-drill-begins-in-bay-of-bengal-183949">India and Russia</a> have reiterated their support for Afghan-led and Afghan-owned inclusive peace and reconciliation process in the war-torn country.

Regular&nbsp;bilateral consultations between India and Russia on Afghanistan were held here on Thursday.

In this context, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-west-trying-to-hold-back-powerful-russia-185542">Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>'s special envoy Zamir Kabulov held delegation-level talks with Joint Secretary (Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran) Deepak Mittal, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

During&nbsp;the meeting, both sides reiterated their support for "Afghan-led and Afghan-owned" inclusive peace and reconciliation process. The Russian side briefed on their efforts to support the peace process through Moscow format of talks.

"It was agreed to maintain regular bilateral consultations and coordination including in the context of international fora with the shared objective to promote peace, security, stability, unity and prosperity in Afghanistan," he added.

The&nbsp;two sides also agreed to hold the next round of consultations on the matter in Moscow in 2019. The&nbsp;Russian envoy later called on Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.&nbsp;

India and Russia have reiterated their support for Afghan-led and Afghan-owned inclusive peace and reconciliation process in the war-torn country. Regular bilateral consultations between India and Russia on Afghanistan were held here on Thursday.

India and Russia have reiterated their support for Afghan-led and Afghan-owned inclusive peace and reconciliation process in the war-torn country. Regular bilateral consultations between India and Russia on Afghanistan were held here on Thursday. In this context, Russian President Vladimir Putin's special envoy Zamir Kabulov held delegation-level talks with Joint Secretary (Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran) Deepak Mittal, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. During the meeting, both sides reiterated their support for "Afghan-led and Afghan-owned" inclusive peace and reconciliation process. The Russian side briefed on their efforts to support the peace process through Moscow format of talks. "It was agreed to maintain regular bilateral consultations and coordination including in the context of international fora with the shared objective to promote peace, security, stability, unity and prosperity in Afghanistan," he added. The two sides also agreed to hold the next round of consultations on the matter in Moscow in 2019. The Russian envoy later called on Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

India, Russia pledge for Afghan-led peace process

US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad raised doubts Thursday about the Taliban's desire to end the 17-year war, after the militants refused to meet with a Kabul-backed negotiating team.

While he was certain the Afghan government wanted to stop the conflict, Khalilzad told Ariana News that he questioned whether the Taliban were "genuinely seeking peace".

"We have to wait and see their forthcoming steps," Khalilzad said according to a translation of the interview provided by the US embassy in Kabul.

Khalilzad's remarks to Afghan media following his latest face-to-face meeting with the Taliban echoed those expressed privately by some Western diplomats in the capital.

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan also attended the talks in Abu Dhabi earlier this week, which the United Arab Emirates hailed as "positive for all parties concerned".

But the Taliban would not meet with a 12-person Afghan delegation, Khalilzad said, describing the decision as "wrong".

"If the Taliban are really seeking peace, they have to sit with the Afghan government ultimately to reach an agreement on the future political settlement in Afghanistan," the former US ambassador to Kabul said.

The Taliban have long refused to talk directly to the Afghan government, which the group accuses of being a puppet of the United States.

In a message released Tuesday the militants said they had held "preliminary talks" with Khalilzad on Monday.

They also said they had held "extensive" meetings with officials from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, repeating demands for international forces to be withdrawn from Afghanistan.

Those three countries were the only ones to recognise the Taliban's 1996-2001 regime.

The meetings are the latest in a flurry of diplomatic efforts as Washington seeks a way out of the Afghan conflict, which began with the 2001 US-led invasion of the country that had harboured Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks.

While US President Donald Trump wanted to end the war, Khalilzad told Tolo News that Washington's "main objective" was to ensure Afghanistan did not pose a threat to the United States in the future.

While ruling out a "pre-9/11 situation" in Afghanistan, Khalilzad said he had told the Taliban that "if the menace of terrorism is tackled, the United States is not looking for a permanent military presence" in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Khalilzad repeated his desire for a peace deal before the Afghan presidential election scheduled to be held in April, but added it was up to the "government and the Taliban".&nbsp;

US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad raised doubts Thursday about the Taliban's desire to end the 17-year war, after the militants refused to meet with a Kabul-backed negotiating team.

US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad raised doubts Thursday about the Taliban's desire to end the 17-year war, after the militants refused to meet with a Kabul-backed negotiating team. While he was certain the Afghan government wanted to stop the conflict, Khalilzad told Ariana News that he questioned whether the Taliban were "genuinely seeking peace". "We have to wait and see their forthcoming steps," Khalilzad said according to a translation of the interview provided by the US embassy in Kabul. Khalilzad's remarks to Afghan media following his latest face-to-face meeting with the Taliban echoed those expressed privately by some Western diplomats in the capital. Saudi Arabia and Pakistan also attended the talks in Abu Dhabi earlier this week, which the United Arab Emirates hailed as "positive for all parties concerned". But the Taliban would not meet with a 12-person Afghan delegation, Khalilzad said, describing the decision as "wrong". "If the Taliban are really seeking peace, they have to sit with the Afghan government ultimately to reach an agreement on the future political settlement in Afghanistan," the former US ambassador to Kabul said. The Taliban have long refused to talk directly to the Afghan government, which the group accuses of being a puppet of the United States. In a message released Tuesday the militants said they had held "preliminary talks" with Khalilzad on Monday. They also said they had held "extensive" meetings with officials from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, repeating demands for international forces to be withdrawn from Afghanistan. Those three countries were the only ones to recognise the Taliban's 1996-2001 regime. The meetings are the latest in a flurry of diplomatic efforts as Washington seeks a way out of the Afghan conflict, which began with the 2001 US-led invasion of the country that had harboured Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks. While US President Donald Trump wanted to end the war, Khalilzad told Tolo News that Washington's "main objective" was to ensure Afghanistan did not pose a threat to the United States in the future. While ruling out a "pre-9/11 situation" in Afghanistan, Khalilzad said he had told the Taliban that "if the menace of terrorism is tackled, the United States is not looking for a permanent military presence" in the country. Khalilzad repeated his desire for a peace deal before the Afghan presidential election scheduled to be held in April, but added it was up to the "government and the Taliban".

US envoy doubts Afghan Taliban's desire for peace

Head scarf-clad Zuhra Nabizada showed no traces of emotion as she handled the machine gun with the ease of a professional during a training session at the shooting range of the Officers Training Academy here.

She is part of a group of 19 women from the Afghanistan Armed forces honing their skills at the Academy.

Wiping the sweat off her sunburnt face, Afghan Air Force's Second Lieutenant Nabizada said this is her second visit to India.

"The first visit was in 2014 to Dehradun to take part in a Taekwondo match," she said.

India's only academy to impart training to women cadets and officers, OTA is hosting women officers from the Afghanistan Armed Forces for the second time, the first being last year with 20 women.

Afghanistan Army's Liaison Officer Captain Sirajulhaq Safi told PTI that this time officers from the country's Air Force have also joined the programme.

"Compared to last year, the team this year comprises many young officers," Safi said, adding that his country sees the exercise as a knowledge-sharing experience.

The month-long training that began November 26, includes weapons training and drill besides others.

Indian Army's Major Ritu Jaswal said the officers were focused and showed keen interest in what was being taught.

"Each country has a different weapon system... Most of the time they use MI-16 assault rifles, here they get the opportunity to learn to use the Indian Small Arms System - light machine guns," she said.

"However, weather is the major hurdle they face here, as the present temperature in their country is below 5 degree Celsius."

December is the time when Chennai experiences cooler climes, Jaswal, who acted as an interpreter for a majority of the women officers who knew only Pashto and Dari, added.

Nabizada, a trainee pilot, said it was not just about weapons, but the session also fostered her leadership skills and boosted her self-confidence. 
She is the only one of her nine other siblings to have chosen a career in the armed forces.

The squad has mostly women below 30 years, while a 50-year-old officer is the seniormost.

About changes made to the training curriculum since last year, an officer said the duration has been extended to four weeks from three weeks last year.

"This has given us more time to teach the officers about everything that is happening in OTA. They also consider it as a lifetime experience," the officer said.

According to OTA officials, the officers also visited various places in the city during the training period which will end on December 26.

Media personnel were allowed to witness a training session in which the women officers showcased their skills in handling light machine guns at the OTA shooting range, abutting Chennai Airport.

Head scarf-clad Zuhra Nabizada showed no traces of emotion as she handled the machine gun with the ease of a professional during a training session at the shooting range of the Officers Training Academy here.

Head scarf-clad Zuhra Nabizada showed no traces of emotion as she handled the machine gun with the ease of a professional during a training session at the shooting range of the Officers Training Academy here. She is part of a group of 19 women from the Afghanistan Armed forces honing their skills at the Academy. Wiping the sweat off her sunburnt face, Afghan Air Force's Second Lieutenant Nabizada said this is her second visit to India. "The first visit was in 2014 to Dehradun to take part in a Taekwondo match," she said. India's only academy to impart training to women cadets and officers, OTA is hosting women officers from the Afghanistan Armed Forces for the second time, the first being last year with 20 women. Afghanistan Army's Liaison Officer Captain Sirajulhaq Safi told PTI that this time officers from the country's Air Force have also joined the programme. "Compared to last year, the team this year comprises many young officers," Safi said, adding that his country sees the exercise as a knowledge-sharing experience. The month-long training that began November 26, includes weapons training and drill besides others. Indian Army's Major Ritu Jaswal said the officers were focused and showed keen interest in what was being taught. "Each country has a different weapon system... Most of the time they use MI-16 assault rifles, here they get the opportunity to learn to use the Indian Small Arms System - light machine guns," she said. "However, weather is the major hurdle they face here, as the present temperature in their country is below 5 degree Celsius." December is the time when Chennai experiences cooler climes, Jaswal, who acted as an interpreter for a majority of the women officers who knew only Pashto and Dari, added. Nabizada, a trainee pilot, said it was not just about weapons, but the session also fostered her leadership skills and boosted her self-confidence. She is the only one of her nine other siblings to have chosen a career in the armed forces. The squad has mostly women below 30 years, while a 50-year-old officer is the seniormost. About changes made to the training curriculum since last year, an officer said the duration has been extended to four weeks from three weeks last year. "This has given us more time to teach the officers about everything that is happening in OTA. They also consider it as a lifetime experience," the officer said. According to OTA officials, the officers also visited various places in the city during the training period which will end on December 26. Media personnel were allowed to witness a training session in which the women officers showcased their skills in handling light machine guns at the OTA shooting range, abutting Chennai Airport.

Second batch of Afghan women officers undergo training at Officers Training Academy

The United Arab Emirates said on Wednesday that reconciliation talks it hosted between the United States and Taliban officials from Afghanistan produced tangible and positive results.

The two days of meetings aimed at ending Afghanistan's 17-year conflict were held in Abu Dhabi, with the attendance of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.The "US-Taliban reconciliation talks" produced "tangible results that are positive for all parties concerned", state-run WAM news agency said.

A new round of talks would be held in Abu Dhabi "to complete the Afghanistan reconciliation process," WAM said without providing further details.

The meetings are the latest in a flurry of diplomatic efforts as Washington seeks a way out of the Afghan conflict, which began with the US invasion in 2001.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad said he had "productive" meetings in the UAE with Afghan and international partners "to promote intra-Afghan dialogue towards ending the conflict".

Khalilzad tweeted that he met with Pakistani officials on Wednesday to brief them, before plans to travel onwards to meet Afghan leaders in Kabul.

An Afghan negotiating team travelled to Abu Dhabi for "proximity dialogue" with the Taliban in preparation for face-to-face meetings, presidential spokesman Haroon Chakhansuri said Tuesday.

The Taliban has not confirmed meeting Afghan officials, saying Tuesday they had held "preliminary talks" with the US envoy.

They also said they had held "extensive" meetings with officials from Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and the UAE, repeating demands for international forces to be withdrawn from Afghanistan.

Those three countries were the only ones to recognise the Taliban government during its five-year rule from 1996.&nbsp;

The United Arab Emirates said on Wednesday that reconciliation talks it hosted between the United States and Taliban officials from Afghanistan produced tangible and positive results.

The United Arab Emirates said on Wednesday that reconciliation talks it hosted between the United States and Taliban officials from Afghanistan produced tangible and positive results. The two days of meetings aimed at ending Afghanistan's 17-year conflict were held in Abu Dhabi, with the attendance of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.The "US-Taliban reconciliation talks" produced "tangible results that are positive for all parties concerned", state-run WAM news agency said. A new round of talks would be held in Abu Dhabi "to complete the Afghanistan reconciliation process," WAM said without providing further details. The meetings are the latest in a flurry of diplomatic efforts as Washington seeks a way out of the Afghan conflict, which began with the US invasion in 2001. US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad said he had "productive" meetings in the UAE with Afghan and international partners "to promote intra-Afghan dialogue towards ending the conflict". Khalilzad tweeted that he met with Pakistani officials on Wednesday to brief them, before plans to travel onwards to meet Afghan leaders in Kabul. An Afghan negotiating team travelled to Abu Dhabi for "proximity dialogue" with the Taliban in preparation for face-to-face meetings, presidential spokesman Haroon Chakhansuri said Tuesday. The Taliban has not confirmed meeting Afghan officials, saying Tuesday they had held "preliminary talks" with the US envoy. They also said they had held "extensive" meetings with officials from Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and the UAE, repeating demands for international forces to be withdrawn from Afghanistan. Those three countries were the only ones to recognise the Taliban government during its five-year rule from 1996.

UAE says 'positive' results from US-Taliban talks

US' special peace envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad Wednesday met Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss regional security and peace process in the war-torn country, days after his crucial meeting with Taliban representatives in the UAE.

The talks between the US and Taliban representatives were held in Abu Dhabi this week. Officials from Pakistan, the UAE and Saudi Arabia also participated in the talks.

Khalilzad reportedly held two rounds of negotiations with Taliban leaders in Qatar before the new round of talks.

Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said in a tweet that "regional security and Afghan peace process were discussed" in the meeting.

"Visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan's efforts for Afghanistan peace process. COAS (Chief of Army Staff) reiterated that peace in Afghanistan is important for Pakistan and assured continuous efforts for bringing peace and stability in the region," Ghafoor said.

It was Khalilzad's third trip to Pakistan in recent months.

According to diplomatic sources, Pakistan helped in arranging the direct talks between the US and Taliban, creating a ray of hope for ending more than 17-year-old Afghan conflict.

It was the second time Pakistan arranged direct talks between the US and Taliban representatives after a similar initiative fell apart in 2015 at the hill resort of Murree, near Islamabad.

The US administration has appreciated Pakistan's role in arranging the meeting with Taliban leaders.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, after taking office in August, made it clear that Pakistan wanted to establish peaceful ties with all its neighbours.

Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump wrote a letter to Prime Minister Khan, asking for help to arrange talks with the rebels.

Trump, however, earlier this year accused Pakistan of doing nothing despite take billions of dollars from the US. Washington also suspended millions of dollars in military aid to Islamabad.

In one of America's longest war, the US has spent over US $1 trillion in Afghanistan since the coalition forces ousted the Taliban in 2001.&nbsp;

US' special peace envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad Wednesday met Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss regional security and peace process in the war-torn country, days after his crucial meeting with Taliban representatives in the UAE.

US' special peace envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad Wednesday met Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss regional security and peace process in the war-torn country, days after his crucial meeting with Taliban representatives in the UAE. The talks between the US and Taliban representatives were held in Abu Dhabi this week. Officials from Pakistan, the UAE and Saudi Arabia also participated in the talks. Khalilzad reportedly held two rounds of negotiations with Taliban leaders in Qatar before the new round of talks. Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said in a tweet that "regional security and Afghan peace process were discussed" in the meeting. "Visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan's efforts for Afghanistan peace process. COAS (Chief of Army Staff) reiterated that peace in Afghanistan is important for Pakistan and assured continuous efforts for bringing peace and stability in the region," Ghafoor said. It was Khalilzad's third trip to Pakistan in recent months. According to diplomatic sources, Pakistan helped in arranging the direct talks between the US and Taliban, creating a ray of hope for ending more than 17-year-old Afghan conflict. It was the second time Pakistan arranged direct talks between the US and Taliban representatives after a similar initiative fell apart in 2015 at the hill resort of Murree, near Islamabad. The US administration has appreciated Pakistan's role in arranging the meeting with Taliban leaders. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, after taking office in August, made it clear that Pakistan wanted to establish peaceful ties with all its neighbours. Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump wrote a letter to Prime Minister Khan, asking for help to arrange talks with the rebels. Trump, however, earlier this year accused Pakistan of doing nothing despite take billions of dollars from the US. Washington also suspended millions of dollars in military aid to Islamabad. In one of America's longest war, the US has spent over US $1 trillion in Afghanistan since the coalition forces ousted the Taliban in 2001.

US' special peace envoy to Afghanistan meets Pakistan Army chief General Bajwa

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-hold-second-round-of-trilateral-dialogue-with-pakistan-china-184232">Afghanistan has voiced</a> appreciation for the "flexibility" shown by its "strategic partner" the US in exempting the Chabahar port project, being developed by India, from its tough sanctions against Iran.

Last month, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-central-bank-expected-to-raise-rates-tuesday-trump-lashes-out-at-it-184903">Trump administration</a> exempted India from imposition of certain sanctions for the development of the strategically-located Chabahar Port in Iran, along with the construction of the railway line connecting it with Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The US had imposed "the toughest ever" sanctions on a defiant Iran aimed at altering the Iranian regime's "behaviour". The sanctions cover Iran's banking and energy sectors and reinstate penalties for countries and companies in Europe, Asia and elsewhere that do not halt Iranian oil imports.&nbsp;

However, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said that eight countries -- India, China, Italy, Greece, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Turkey -- were temporarily allowed to continue buying Iranian oil as they showed "significant reduction" in oil purchase from the Persian Gulf country.&nbsp;

"The Chabahar Port remains an important gateway for providing commercially viable access to the sea linking the Indian Ocean with Afghanistan, Central Asia and beyond. In this regard, we appreciate the collaboration and flexibility of our strategic partner, the United States to work with Afghanistan, Iran and India towards exempting the port from its Sanctions, Afghanistan's Permanent Representative to the UN Mahmoud Saikal said Monday at a Security Council on the situation in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Saikal said since last year, Kabul has operationalised air-cargo corridors with India, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Europe, Russia, UAE, Saudi Arabia and China, leading to a substantial increase in export of Afghan products abroad.&nbsp;

The year 2018 also witnessed the implementation of the Afghanistan section of the TAPI gas pipeline project, "which will revolutionise the energy sector in Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India".&nbsp;

A State Department spokesperson had said that the fate of Chabahar Port that the "exception relates to reconstruction assistance and economic development for Afghanistan. These activities are vital for the ongoing support of Afghanistan's growth and humanitarian relief."&nbsp;

India's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Tanmaya Lal told the Security Council meeting that New Delhi is working closely with Kabul in implementing development projects.&nbsp;

In May 2016, India, Iran and Afghanistan inked a pact which entailed establishment of Transit and Transport Corridor among the three countries using Chabahar Port as one of the regional hubs for sea transportation in Iran, besides multi-modal transport of goods and passengers across the three nations.

The port in the Sistan-Balochistan province on the energy-rich nations southern coast is easily accessible from India's western coast and is increasingly seen as a counter to Pakistan's Gwadar Port, which is being developed with Chinese investment and is located at distance of around 80 kms from Chabahar.&nbsp;

The Chabahar Port is considered a gateway to golden opportunities for trade by India, Iran and Afghanistan with central Asian countries besides ramping up trade among the three countries after Pakistan denied transit access to India.&nbsp;

India also criticised the inability and unwillingness of the international community and the Security Council to deal effectively with the source of deteriorating security situation and growing terror attacks in the war-torn country.&nbsp;

"The sanctuaries and safe havens provided to these terror networks for years are well known. The activities of Taliban, Haqqani Network, Da'esh, Al Qaeda and its proscribed affiliates including the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed have to be stopped," Lal said.&nbsp;

He also strongly criticized the Security Council sanctions committee for refusing to designate new leaders of the Taliban or to freeze the assets of the slain leader of Taliban, saying the powerful UN body is falling short of what is expected of it by the Afghans and international community. From the lessons from the past, we who are located in New York, are aware that peace in Afghanistan is tied to the peace and security in the entire world."

Afghanistan has voiced appreciation for the "flexibility" shown by its "strategic partner" the US in exempting the Chabahar port project, being developed by India, from its tough sanctions against Iran.

Afghanistan has voiced appreciation for the "flexibility" shown by its "strategic partner" the US in exempting the Chabahar port project, being developed by India, from its tough sanctions against Iran. Last month, the Trump administration exempted India from imposition of certain sanctions for the development of the strategically-located Chabahar Port in Iran, along with the construction of the railway line connecting it with Afghanistan. The US had imposed "the toughest ever" sanctions on a defiant Iran aimed at altering the Iranian regime's "behaviour". The sanctions cover Iran's banking and energy sectors and reinstate penalties for countries and companies in Europe, Asia and elsewhere that do not halt Iranian oil imports. However, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said that eight countries -- India, China, Italy, Greece, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Turkey -- were temporarily allowed to continue buying Iranian oil as they showed "significant reduction" in oil purchase from the Persian Gulf country. "The Chabahar Port remains an important gateway for providing commercially viable access to the sea linking the Indian Ocean with Afghanistan, Central Asia and beyond. In this regard, we appreciate the collaboration and flexibility of our strategic partner, the United States to work with Afghanistan, Iran and India towards exempting the port from its Sanctions, Afghanistan's Permanent Representative to the UN Mahmoud Saikal said Monday at a Security Council on the situation in Afghanistan. Saikal said since last year, Kabul has operationalised air-cargo corridors with India, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Europe, Russia, UAE, Saudi Arabia and China, leading to a substantial increase in export of Afghan products abroad. The year 2018 also witnessed the implementation of the Afghanistan section of the TAPI gas pipeline project, "which will revolutionise the energy sector in Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India". A State Department spokesperson had said that the fate of Chabahar Port that the "exception relates to reconstruction assistance and economic development for Afghanistan. These activities are vital for the ongoing support of Afghanistan's growth and humanitarian relief." India's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Tanmaya Lal told the Security Council meeting that New Delhi is working closely with Kabul in implementing development projects. In May 2016, India, Iran and Afghanistan inked a pact which entailed establishment of Transit and Transport Corridor among the three countries using Chabahar Port as one of the regional hubs for sea transportation in Iran, besides multi-modal transport of goods and passengers across the three nations. The port in the Sistan-Balochistan province on the energy-rich nations southern coast is easily accessible from India's western coast and is increasingly seen as a counter to Pakistan's Gwadar Port, which is being developed with Chinese investment and is located at distance of around 80 kms from Chabahar. The Chabahar Port is considered a gateway to golden opportunities for trade by India, Iran and Afghanistan with central Asian countries besides ramping up trade among the three countries after Pakistan denied transit access to India. India also criticised the inability and unwillingness of the international community and the Security Council to deal effectively with the source of deteriorating security situation and growing terror attacks in the war-torn country. "The sanctuaries and safe havens provided to these terror networks for years are well known. The activities of Taliban, Haqqani Network, Da'esh, Al Qaeda and its proscribed affiliates including the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed have to be stopped," Lal said. He also strongly criticized the Security Council sanctions committee for refusing to designate new leaders of the Taliban or to freeze the assets of the slain leader of Taliban, saying the powerful UN body is falling short of what is expected of it by the Afghans and international community. From the lessons from the past, we who are located in New York, are aware that peace in Afghanistan is tied to the peace and security in the entire world."

Afghanistan appreciates US' flexibility towards exempting Chabahar port from Iran sanctions 

Prime Minister Imran Khan said Tuesday that Pakistan will do everything within its power to further the peace process in Afghanistan as talks sponsored by the country between the US and the Taliban were being held in the UAE to end the 17-year bloody conflict.

The US and the Taliban have previously met on at least two occasions in Qatar but it is the first time that they are holding talks outside Doha, where the insurgent group has a political office, according to officials.

Khan highlighted the role being played by Pakistan in holding the talks between the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-ceasefire-push-in-focus-in-us-taliban-talks-185000">US and the Taliban </a>in Abu Dhabi.

He expressed his desire for peace to end the sufferings of the people of Afghanistan.

"Pakistan has helped in the dialogue between the Taliban and the US in Abu Dhabi. Let us pray that this leads to peace and ends almost three decades of suffering of the brave Afghan people," Khan said on Twitter

Khan also said, "Pakistan will be doing everything within its power to further the peace process".

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Pakistan were the only three nations to recognise the Taliban government during its five-year rule from 1996-2001.

The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.

Prime Minister Imran Khan said Tuesday that Pakistan will do everything within its power to further the peace process in Afghanistan as talks sponsored by the country between the US and the Taliban were being held in the UAE to end the 17-year bloody conflict.

Prime Minister Imran Khan said Tuesday that Pakistan will do everything within its power to further the peace process in Afghanistan as talks sponsored by the country between the US and the Taliban were being held in the UAE to end the 17-year bloody conflict. The US and the Taliban have previously met on at least two occasions in Qatar but it is the first time that they are holding talks outside Doha, where the insurgent group has a political office, according to officials. Khan highlighted the role being played by Pakistan in holding the talks between the US and the Taliban in Abu Dhabi. He expressed his desire for peace to end the sufferings of the people of Afghanistan. "Pakistan has helped in the dialogue between the Taliban and the US in Abu Dhabi. Let us pray that this leads to peace and ends almost three decades of suffering of the brave Afghan people," Khan said on Twitter Khan also said, "Pakistan will be doing everything within its power to further the peace process". Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Pakistan were the only three nations to recognise the Taliban government during its five-year rule from 1996-2001. The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.

Pak will do everything within its power for Afghan peace: Imran Khan

Talks between US and Taliban officials aimed at arranging peace negotiations in Afghanistan were set for a second day on Tuesday after discussions around the future of foreign forces and a possible six-month ceasefire, Taliban sources said.

The three-day meeting in Abu Dhabi is at least the third time that US special peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad has met <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-forces-abandon-district-after-taliban-pressure-183544">Taliban </a>representatives as diplomatic efforts to end the 17-year war have intensified this year.

On Monday, a Taliban delegation met officials from Saudi Arabia,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-army-says-it-backs-us-peace-talks-with-afghan-taliban-181980"> Pakistan</a> and the United Arab Emirates ahead of their meeting with Khalilzad, who was appointed to oversee Washington's peace effort in September.

Taliban officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the US delegation was pressing for a six-month ceasefire as well as an agreement to name Taliban representatives to a future caretaker government.

The officials said the Taliban, fighting to drive foreign forces from Afghanistan and bring in their version of strict Islamic law, were resisting a ceasefire as they felt it would damage their cause and help US and Afghan forces.

"If these three countries - Saudi Arabia, UAE and Pakistan - become guarantors and the US appoints the head of a caretaker government in Afghanistan that we nominate, then we can think about a ceasefire," one senior Taliban official said.

There was no immediate comment from the US embassy in Kabul.

The latest round of diplomacy comes about a year after the United States sent thousands of extra troops to Afghanistan and stepped up air strikes to record levels, with the aim of pushing the Taliban to accept talks.

However, despite US insistence that any peace settlement must be agreed between Afghans, the Taliban have refused to talk directly with officials from the Kabul government, which they consider an illegitimate, foreign-appointed regime.

"Talks revolved around withdrawal of occupation forces from Afghanistan, ending the oppression being carried out by the United States and her allies and views were exchanged with the said countries about peace and reconstruction of Afghanistan," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement.

An Afghan government team travelled to Abu Dhabi "to begin proximity dialogue with the Taliban delegation and to prepare for a face-to-face meeting between the two sides", government spokesman Haroon Chakansuri said in a statement.

But there was no sign from the Taliban that they were ready to accept talks with the government. On Monday, Mujahid dismissed reports of a meeting as "propaganda".

The United States says the aim of the talks is to facilitate an Afghan-led process and the inclusion of Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Pakistan in the talks reflects a US desire to bring in countries with an interest in Afghanistan.

Previous meetings were held in Qatar, where the Taliban maintains a political office, but a push to include Saudi Arabia, which is hostile to the gas-rich Gulf state, prompted a change of venue to Abu Dhabi.

Talks between US and Taliban officials aimed at arranging peace negotiations in Afghanistan were set for a second day on Tuesday after discussions around the future of foreign forces and a possible six-month ceasefire, Taliban sources said.

Talks between US and Taliban officials aimed at arranging peace negotiations in Afghanistan were set for a second day on Tuesday after discussions around the future of foreign forces and a possible six-month ceasefire, Taliban sources said. The three-day meeting in Abu Dhabi is at least the third time that US special peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad has met Taliban representatives as diplomatic efforts to end the 17-year war have intensified this year. On Monday, a Taliban delegation met officials from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates ahead of their meeting with Khalilzad, who was appointed to oversee Washington's peace effort in September. Taliban officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the US delegation was pressing for a six-month ceasefire as well as an agreement to name Taliban representatives to a future caretaker government. The officials said the Taliban, fighting to drive foreign forces from Afghanistan and bring in their version of strict Islamic law, were resisting a ceasefire as they felt it would damage their cause and help US and Afghan forces. "If these three countries - Saudi Arabia, UAE and Pakistan - become guarantors and the US appoints the head of a caretaker government in Afghanistan that we nominate, then we can think about a ceasefire," one senior Taliban official said. There was no immediate comment from the US embassy in Kabul. The latest round of diplomacy comes about a year after the United States sent thousands of extra troops to Afghanistan and stepped up air strikes to record levels, with the aim of pushing the Taliban to accept talks. However, despite US insistence that any peace settlement must be agreed between Afghans, the Taliban have refused to talk directly with officials from the Kabul government, which they consider an illegitimate, foreign-appointed regime. "Talks revolved around withdrawal of occupation forces from Afghanistan, ending the oppression being carried out by the United States and her allies and views were exchanged with the said countries about peace and reconstruction of Afghanistan," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement. An Afghan government team travelled to Abu Dhabi "to begin proximity dialogue with the Taliban delegation and to prepare for a face-to-face meeting between the two sides", government spokesman Haroon Chakansuri said in a statement. But there was no sign from the Taliban that they were ready to accept talks with the government. On Monday, Mujahid dismissed reports of a meeting as "propaganda". The United States says the aim of the talks is to facilitate an Afghan-led process and the inclusion of Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Pakistan in the talks reflects a US desire to bring in countries with an interest in Afghanistan. Previous meetings were held in Qatar, where the Taliban maintains a political office, but a push to include Saudi Arabia, which is hostile to the gas-rich Gulf state, prompted a change of venue to Abu Dhabi.

Afghanistan ceasefire push in focus in US, Taliban talks

China, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to cooperate on counter-terrorism and coordinate to call on the Taliban to return to the negotiating table and to move ahead the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned reconciliation process, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Monday.

On December 15, State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the second China, Afghanistan and Pakistan trilateral foreign ministers' dialogue in Kabul where a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on counter-terrorism was signed between the three countries, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said here.

Wang met Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Salahuddin Rabbani, his Pakistani and Afghan counterparts respectively as the three sides agreed to use the existing dialogue mechanism to enhance coordination and promote cooperation, Hua said.

"It is important for the three parties to enhance counter-terrorism cooperation and to enhance communication to move forward the trilateral cooperation," she said. 
The three sides will coordinate to call on the Taliban to return to the negotiating table, Hua said.

The three countries will seize the opportunity and move ahead the Afghan-led, Afghan-owned reconciliation process with Afghanistan playing the primary role, she said.

It was decided that Afghanistan and Pakistan will further improve their bilateral ties and engage in more sound interactions and resolve their differences through friendly consultations and avoid hurting bilateral ties, Hua said.

China is a friend to both Afghanistan and Pakistan and would like to play a constructive part to help improve their bilateral ties, the spokesperson said.

"The three countries have also decided to expand soft approach such as exchanges and training, and explore hard projects like livelihood and transportation and infrastructure," Hua said.

It was also decided that the three sides will enhance regional connectivity and economic development within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, she said, adding that Afghanistan could benefit from regional cooperation projects including the multi-billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor by leveraging its unique geographic advantages.

They agreed to expand counter-terrorism cooperation by implementing the MoU on counter-terrorism signed during this second dialogue to enhance policy coordination, practical cooperation, exchanges and cooperation under the multilateral frameworks, she said.

"China will support Afghanistan and Pakistan in moving forward counter-terrorism cooperation," Hua said.

The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.&nbsp;

China, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to cooperate on counter-terrorism and coordinate to call on the Taliban to return to the negotiating table and to move ahead the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned reconciliation process, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Monday.

China, Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to cooperate on counter-terrorism and coordinate to call on the Taliban to return to the negotiating table and to move ahead the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned reconciliation process, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Monday. On December 15, State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the second China, Afghanistan and Pakistan trilateral foreign ministers' dialogue in Kabul where a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on counter-terrorism was signed between the three countries, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said here. Wang met Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Salahuddin Rabbani, his Pakistani and Afghan counterparts respectively as the three sides agreed to use the existing dialogue mechanism to enhance coordination and promote cooperation, Hua said. "It is important for the three parties to enhance counter-terrorism cooperation and to enhance communication to move forward the trilateral cooperation," she said. The three sides will coordinate to call on the Taliban to return to the negotiating table, Hua said. The three countries will seize the opportunity and move ahead the Afghan-led, Afghan-owned reconciliation process with Afghanistan playing the primary role, she said. It was decided that Afghanistan and Pakistan will further improve their bilateral ties and engage in more sound interactions and resolve their differences through friendly consultations and avoid hurting bilateral ties, Hua said. China is a friend to both Afghanistan and Pakistan and would like to play a constructive part to help improve their bilateral ties, the spokesperson said. "The three countries have also decided to expand soft approach such as exchanges and training, and explore hard projects like livelihood and transportation and infrastructure," Hua said. It was also decided that the three sides will enhance regional connectivity and economic development within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, she said, adding that Afghanistan could benefit from regional cooperation projects including the multi-billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor by leveraging its unique geographic advantages. They agreed to expand counter-terrorism cooperation by implementing the MoU on counter-terrorism signed during this second dialogue to enhance policy coordination, practical cooperation, exchanges and cooperation under the multilateral frameworks, she said. "China will support Afghanistan and Pakistan in moving forward counter-terrorism cooperation," Hua said. The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.

China, Pak and Afghan sign MoU to cooperate on counter-terrorism

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lawyer-says-mueller-can-interview-trump-only-over-my-dead-body-184611">US President Donald Trump</a> said that he will review the case of a soldier charged with premeditated murder for killing an alleged bomb-maker in Afghanistan.

"I will be reviewing the case of a 'US Military hero,' Major Matt Golsteyn, who is charged with murder," Trump wrote on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
At the request of many, I will be reviewing the case of a “U.S. Military hero,” Major Matt Golsteyn, who is charged with murder. He could face the death penalty from our own government after he admitted to killing a Terrorist bomb maker while overseas. <a href="https://twitter.com/PeteHegseth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PeteHegseth</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxNews</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1074319076766433280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The president's tweet mentioned Fox News, the channel on which Golsteyn's attorney and his wife were interviewed about the issue earlier in the day.

US media reported that the soldier killed the suspected bomb-maker after he was detained in 2010, and that Golsteyn admitted to doing so both to the CIA in 2011 and on Fox in 2016.

The latter appearance prompted the military to open a new investigation after Golsteyn was previously cleared.

His attorney, Phillip Stackhouse, tweeted that Golsteyn is charged with "premeditated murder, a death penalty offence for allegedly killing a Taliban bomb-maker during combat operations in Marjah, Afghanistan."

A US military spokesperson confirmed the charge to AFP but said, "We are not at liberty to discuss details of an ongoing case or investigation to ensure the rights of the accused are protected."

Speaking on Fox, Stackhouse on Sunday denied "a narrative... Put out" by the military in which Golsteyn "released this Taliban bomb-maker, walked him back to the house... And assassinated him in his house." As to why his client is being charged now, Stackhouse said, "The prosecutor, in this case, has intimated to me that they have new evidence."

Golsteyn's wife Julie, also appearing on Fox, denied that her husband had "killed someone in cold blood" and said that "there are a lot of words flying around that make this very difficult for us as a family."

Golsteyn is due to report to Fort Bragg in North Carolina on Monday, she said.

The US has fought a grinding 17-year war against Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan -- a bloody, destructive and expensive conflict for which there is no end in sight.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said that he will review the case of a soldier charged with premeditated murder for killing an alleged bomb-maker in Afghanistan. "I will be reviewing the case of a 'US Military hero,' Major Matt Golsteyn, who is charged with murder," Trump wrote on Twitter.

US President Donald Trump said that he will review the case of a soldier charged with premeditated murder for killing an alleged bomb-maker in Afghanistan. "I will be reviewing the case of a 'US Military hero,' Major Matt Golsteyn, who is charged with murder," Trump wrote on Twitter. At the request of many, I will be reviewing the case of a “U.S. Military hero,” Major Matt Golsteyn, who is charged with murder. He could face the death penalty from our own government after he admitted to killing a Terrorist bomb maker while overseas. @PeteHegseth @FoxNews — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 16, 2018 × The president's tweet mentioned Fox News, the channel on which Golsteyn's attorney and his wife were interviewed about the issue earlier in the day. US media reported that the soldier killed the suspected bomb-maker after he was detained in 2010, and that Golsteyn admitted to doing so both to the CIA in 2011 and on Fox in 2016. The latter appearance prompted the military to open a new investigation after Golsteyn was previously cleared. His attorney, Phillip Stackhouse, tweeted that Golsteyn is charged with "premeditated murder, a death penalty offence for allegedly killing a Taliban bomb-maker during combat operations in Marjah, Afghanistan." A US military spokesperson confirmed the charge to AFP but said, "We are not at liberty to discuss details of an ongoing case or investigation to ensure the rights of the accused are protected." Speaking on Fox, Stackhouse on Sunday denied "a narrative... Put out" by the military in which Golsteyn "released this Taliban bomb-maker, walked him back to the house... And assassinated him in his house." As to why his client is being charged now, Stackhouse said, "The prosecutor, in this case, has intimated to me that they have new evidence." Golsteyn's wife Julie, also appearing on Fox, denied that her husband had "killed someone in cold blood" and said that "there are a lot of words flying around that make this very difficult for us as a family." Golsteyn is due to report to Fort Bragg in North Carolina on Monday, she said. The US has fought a grinding 17-year war against Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan -- a bloody, destructive and expensive conflict for which there is no end in sight.

I will review case of US soldier charged with murdering Afghan: Trump

At least 20 Afghan civilians, including 12 children, were killed in an airstrike targeting a Taliban commander in the eastern province of Kunar late on Friday, local officials said.

The strike, against local Taliban commander Sharif Mawiya, was the latest in a series targeting senior insurgents, including the shadow governor of the strategic southern province of Helmand, who was killed on December 2.

Several Taliban military commanders have been killed this month by Afghan forces, backed by US&nbsp;advisers and air power.

The tactic has raised the risk of civilian casualties and Abdul Latif Fazly, a member of the provincial council, said eight women and 12 children were killed and more than 15 others wounded in Friday's airstrike.

However a spokeswoman for the NATO-led Resolute Support mission denied that there were civilian deaths, although she said some civilians were wounded.

"The Taliban continue to use civilians as shields and barricade themselves inside compounds while engaging the Afghan forces," said Debra Richardson of Resolute Support.

She said US&nbsp;airstrikes were supporting the new Afghan army strategy of targeting the entire Taliban organisation, from low level fighters to high ranking leaders.

"We have reports over 40 Taliban fighters were killed in the Afghan-led operations, supported by US&nbsp;air strikes in Kunar province," said Richardson.

Kunar governor Abdul Satar Mirzakwal said an operation by Afghan forces in Sheltan district killed 38 Taliban and al Qaeda members, including four foreign nationals, and wounded 12 more. He said the operation targeted Sharif Mawiya, a commander believed to be a facilitator with Al Qaeda militants.

He said an unknown number of civilians were hit in the strike but had no casualty details.

"We know that a number of civilians, including women and children, have been killed but we are sending a fact-finding team," he said.

The number of Afghan civilians killed in US and Afghan airstrikes has risen sharply this year as Western-backed forces have stepped up aerial operations with the aim of forcing the Taliban to agree to peace talks.

According to United Nations figures, 313 civilians were killed and 336 wounded in airstrikes by US&nbsp;and Afghan forces in the nine months to the end of September, a 39 per cent increase from the same period in 2017.

Airstrike casualties accounted for eight per cent of the total 8,050 civilian casualties during the period. The overall number of civilian casualties was roughly stable.

&nbsp;

At least 20 Afghan civilians, including 12 children, were killed in an airstrike targeting a Taliban commander in the eastern province of Kunar late on Friday, local officials said.

At least 20 Afghan civilians, including 12 children, were killed in an airstrike targeting a Taliban commander in the eastern province of Kunar late on Friday, local officials said. The strike, against local Taliban commander Sharif Mawiya, was the latest in a series targeting senior insurgents, including the shadow governor of the strategic southern province of Helmand, who was killed on December 2. Several Taliban military commanders have been killed this month by Afghan forces, backed by US advisers and air power. The tactic has raised the risk of civilian casualties and Abdul Latif Fazly, a member of the provincial council, said eight women and 12 children were killed and more than 15 others wounded in Friday's airstrike. However a spokeswoman for the NATO-led Resolute Support mission denied that there were civilian deaths, although she said some civilians were wounded. "The Taliban continue to use civilians as shields and barricade themselves inside compounds while engaging the Afghan forces," said Debra Richardson of Resolute Support. She said US airstrikes were supporting the new Afghan army strategy of targeting the entire Taliban organisation, from low level fighters to high ranking leaders. "We have reports over 40 Taliban fighters were killed in the Afghan-led operations, supported by US air strikes in Kunar province," said Richardson. Kunar governor Abdul Satar Mirzakwal said an operation by Afghan forces in Sheltan district killed 38 Taliban and al Qaeda members, including four foreign nationals, and wounded 12 more. He said the operation targeted Sharif Mawiya, a commander believed to be a facilitator with Al Qaeda militants. He said an unknown number of civilians were hit in the strike but had no casualty details. "We know that a number of civilians, including women and children, have been killed but we are sending a fact-finding team," he said. The number of Afghan civilians killed in US and Afghan airstrikes has risen sharply this year as Western-backed forces have stepped up aerial operations with the aim of forcing the Taliban to agree to peace talks. According to United Nations figures, 313 civilians were killed and 336 wounded in airstrikes by US and Afghan forces in the nine months to the end of September, a 39 per cent increase from the same period in 2017. Airstrike casualties accounted for eight per cent of the total 8,050 civilian casualties during the period. The overall number of civilian casualties was roughly stable.

At least 20 Afghan civilians killed in airstrike: Officials

China pledged to help Afghanistan and Pakistan overcome longstanding suspicions, as officials from the three nations met on Saturday in the latest round of diplomacy aimed at opening talks with the Taliban to end the Afghan war.

China, a close ally of Pakistan, has lately deepened its economic and political ties with Kabul and is using its influence to try to bring the two uneasy South Asian neighbours closer, at a time when the United States has sought Pakistan's help with faltering Afghan peace talks.

The Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, met the foreign ministers of Afghanistan and Pakistan in Kabul to put into effect a memorandum of understanding on security cooperation and support for Afghanistan's efforts to open talks with the Taliban.

"China approves of this, and is willing to provide support and help for Pakistan and Afghanistan to improve their ties," Wang told reporters after the meeting.

The meeting, which followed initial talks between the three countries a year ago, is the latest sign of China's increasing engagement in the region, where it has invested massively in the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a central part of its global Belt and Road initiative.

Direct talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban collapsed in 2015, and the Taliban, fighting to drive out international forces and re-establish their version of strict Islamic law, have repeatedly rejected the direct peace talks offered by the Western-backed Afghan government.

However, they have opened contacts with the United States to prepare for possible talks to end a war that has killed and maimed tens of thousands in the 17 years since a US-backed campaign overthrew the Taliban in 2001.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani recently formed a 12-strong team to negotiate with the Taliban, but has said any deal could take at least five years to implement.

"We support Afghanistan and Pakistan efforts for peace and we call on the Taliban to join the peace process," said Wang, adding that both countries have agreed to resolve disputes through "friendly consultations."

Political tensions, coupled with allegations that security agencies in both countries support militant groups that bring deadly attacks against one another continue to strain relations between Kabul and Islamabad.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said Islamabad was committed to stability and peace in Afghanistan.

"By blaming, no one moves ahead, we have to stop pointing fingers at each other that why I am here to build mutual political trusts and facilitate the peace process of Afghanistan," he said.

Earlier this month US&nbsp;President Donald Trump requested Pakistan's support for the US&nbsp;effort to advance the Afghan peace process.

The officials also signed agreements to enable the expansion of CPEC to Afghanistan through road and rail links.

China pledged to help Afghanistan and Pakistan overcome longstanding suspicions, as officials from the three nations met on Saturday in the latest round of diplomacy aimed at opening talks with the Taliban to end the Afghan war.

China pledged to help Afghanistan and Pakistan overcome longstanding suspicions, as officials from the three nations met on Saturday in the latest round of diplomacy aimed at opening talks with the Taliban to end the Afghan war. China, a close ally of Pakistan, has lately deepened its economic and political ties with Kabul and is using its influence to try to bring the two uneasy South Asian neighbours closer, at a time when the United States has sought Pakistan's help with faltering Afghan peace talks. The Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi, met the foreign ministers of Afghanistan and Pakistan in Kabul to put into effect a memorandum of understanding on security cooperation and support for Afghanistan's efforts to open talks with the Taliban. "China approves of this, and is willing to provide support and help for Pakistan and Afghanistan to improve their ties," Wang told reporters after the meeting. The meeting, which followed initial talks between the three countries a year ago, is the latest sign of China's increasing engagement in the region, where it has invested massively in the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a central part of its global Belt and Road initiative. Direct talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban collapsed in 2015, and the Taliban, fighting to drive out international forces and re-establish their version of strict Islamic law, have repeatedly rejected the direct peace talks offered by the Western-backed Afghan government. However, they have opened contacts with the United States to prepare for possible talks to end a war that has killed and maimed tens of thousands in the 17 years since a US-backed campaign overthrew the Taliban in 2001. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani recently formed a 12-strong team to negotiate with the Taliban, but has said any deal could take at least five years to implement. "We support Afghanistan and Pakistan efforts for peace and we call on the Taliban to join the peace process," said Wang, adding that both countries have agreed to resolve disputes through "friendly consultations." Political tensions, coupled with allegations that security agencies in both countries support militant groups that bring deadly attacks against one another continue to strain relations between Kabul and Islamabad. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said Islamabad was committed to stability and peace in Afghanistan. "By blaming, no one moves ahead, we have to stop pointing fingers at each other that why I am here to build mutual political trusts and facilitate the peace process of Afghanistan," he said. Earlier this month US President Donald Trump requested Pakistan's support for the US effort to advance the Afghan peace process. The officials also signed agreements to enable the expansion of CPEC to Afghanistan through road and rail links.

China pledges to help Afghanistan and Pakistan bridge divisions

Afghanistan on Saturday hosted a three-way meeting with Pakistan and China to discuss trade and development in the country with a focus on counter-terrorism cooperation.&nbsp;

The foreign minister of three countries,&nbsp;Shah Mahmood Qureshi,&nbsp;Wang Yi and Afghan counterpart Salahuddin Rabbani signed a Memorandum of Understanding on anti-terrorism cooperation in Kabul.

During the inaugural speech of the trilateral dialogue, Rabbani said that collective efforts are required to address the common challenge of terrorism.

He also said that Pakistan-Afghan relations are rooted in common faith and culture and added that he desire to strengthen their relations.

Reaffirming commitment to eradicate terrorism, Pakistan foreign minister Qureshi&nbsp;said,&nbsp;"better border management between Pakistan and Afghanistan and intelligence sharing will be greatly beneficial for both countries."

This was the second round of the trilateral dialogue Beijing initiated last year to help ease political tensions between Islamabad and Kabul.&nbsp;

Qureshi is also expected to meet Afghan President Ashraf Ghani during his visit. This is his second&nbsp;visit to Afghanistan&nbsp;since assuming office this year.

Pakistan and Afghanistan are trying to improve ties despite lingering suspicions and mistrust about each other.&nbsp;

The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.&nbsp;

China, a close ally of Pakistan, has lent tens of billions of dollars to Pakistan and the two have forged close economic ties as part of Beijing's "One Belt, One Road" policy of expanding trade links across Asia.

 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan on Saturday hosted a three-way meeting with Pakistan and China to discuss trade and development in the country with a focus on counter-terrorism cooperation.

Afghanistan on Saturday hosted a three-way meeting with Pakistan and China to discuss trade and development in the country with a focus on counter-terrorism cooperation. The foreign minister of three countries, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Wang Yi and Afghan counterpart Salahuddin Rabbani signed a Memorandum of Understanding on anti-terrorism cooperation in Kabul. During the inaugural speech of the trilateral dialogue, Rabbani said that collective efforts are required to address the common challenge of terrorism. He also said that Pakistan-Afghan relations are rooted in common faith and culture and added that he desire to strengthen their relations. Reaffirming commitment to eradicate terrorism, Pakistan foreign minister Qureshi said, "better border management between Pakistan and Afghanistan and intelligence sharing will be greatly beneficial for both countries." This was the second round of the trilateral dialogue Beijing initiated last year to help ease political tensions between Islamabad and Kabul. Qureshi is also expected to meet Afghan President Ashraf Ghani during his visit. This is his second visit to Afghanistan since assuming office this year. Pakistan and Afghanistan are trying to improve ties despite lingering suspicions and mistrust about each other. The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001. China, a close ally of Pakistan, has lent tens of billions of dollars to Pakistan and the two have forged close economic ties as part of Beijing's "One Belt, One Road" policy of expanding trade links across Asia.

Afghanistan holds second round of trilateral dialogue with Pakistan, China

Afghan forces, backed by US advisers and air power, are targeting Taliban field commanders seen as a major obstacle to possible peace talks, as they step up military pressure on the insurgents, security officials said.

Abdul Manan, the shadow Taliban governor of the strategic province of Helmand and the insurgents' top military commander in the south, was killed in a joint operation by US and Afghan special forces on December 2.

Two days later, the Taliban shadow governor of Ghor province in central Afghanistan was killed while on a visit to Helmand and on Saturday, the shadow governor of Paktika, on the border with Pakistan, was killed in a raid by Afghan special forces.

"The war-hardened Taliban field commanders are the biggest obstacle to peace efforts because they believe they are winning militarily," said a senior government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not authorised to talk to the media.

"The plan was designed to eliminate them and pave the way for future talks," he said.

Najib Danish, interior ministry spokesman, said government forces would use all means to remove hurdles blocking peace and stability.

Senior commanders have been targeted regularly in the past but the current campaign is part of a strategy to apply heavier battlefield pressure on the Taliban even while diplomatic efforts to start peace talks intensify ahead of presidential elections next year.

The Taliban, whose fighters briefly overran the central city of Ghazni in August, have steadily increased territorial gains since NATO forces ended combat missions in 2014, leaving the government in control of no more than two thirds of the country.

But as moves towards a possible start to talks with the Taliban have stepped up following US President Donald Trump's appointment of former ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad as special peace envoy, fighting has intensified.

'PRECISELY TARGET'

Air and ground operations have surged in recent weeks as General Scott Miller, who took command of US forces in Afghanistan in September, has pressed government forces to go on the attack to strengthen their hand in any talks.

"We've realigned support and precision lethal assets to precisely target the Taliban more often and more effectively to set conditions for the negotiated settlement," said Colonel David Butler, spokesman for US Forces Afghanistan.

"We don't consider the death of these leaders decisive, unfortunately many more will die until the Taliban decide to stop fighting. The only lasting solution will be a political settlement," he said.

As air strikes have increased, so has the risk of civilian casualties but Afghan security officials say, despite that danger, the local commanders remain high priority targets.

The decision to target regional Taliban commanders reflects a belief that many of them oppose a peaceful settlement that would threaten lucrative tax collection operations and revenues from sources like illegal mining and narcotics.

The officials say that ever since the death of former Taliban leader Mullah Akhtar Mansour in a US drone strike in 2016, field commanders have kept increasing control over finances raised in their areas.

Mansour, who ran the movement's finances for Taliban founder Mullah Mohammad Omar, kept a firm grip on revenues, ensuring that commanders passed revenues up the line for later distribution.

Under his successor, Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, that system changed, with field commanders given more independence and control over revenues, meaning many have an interest in seeing conflict and lawlessness go on.

"Local commanders were told to earn and fund their own fighting in areas under their command. That helped them get very rich and they by no means wanted any peace," a second security official said.

Afghan forces, backed by US advisers and air power, are targeting Taliban field commanders seen as a major obstacle to possible peace talks, as they step up military pressure on the insurgents, security officials said.

Afghan forces, backed by US advisers and air power, are targeting Taliban field commanders seen as a major obstacle to possible peace talks, as they step up military pressure on the insurgents, security officials said. Abdul Manan, the shadow Taliban governor of the strategic province of Helmand and the insurgents' top military commander in the south, was killed in a joint operation by US and Afghan special forces on December 2. Two days later, the Taliban shadow governor of Ghor province in central Afghanistan was killed while on a visit to Helmand and on Saturday, the shadow governor of Paktika, on the border with Pakistan, was killed in a raid by Afghan special forces. "The war-hardened Taliban field commanders are the biggest obstacle to peace efforts because they believe they are winning militarily," said a senior government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not authorised to talk to the media. "The plan was designed to eliminate them and pave the way for future talks," he said. Najib Danish, interior ministry spokesman, said government forces would use all means to remove hurdles blocking peace and stability. Senior commanders have been targeted regularly in the past but the current campaign is part of a strategy to apply heavier battlefield pressure on the Taliban even while diplomatic efforts to start peace talks intensify ahead of presidential elections next year. The Taliban, whose fighters briefly overran the central city of Ghazni in August, have steadily increased territorial gains since NATO forces ended combat missions in 2014, leaving the government in control of no more than two thirds of the country. But as moves towards a possible start to talks with the Taliban have stepped up following US President Donald Trump's appointment of former ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad as special peace envoy, fighting has intensified. 'PRECISELY TARGET' Air and ground operations have surged in recent weeks as General Scott Miller, who took command of US forces in Afghanistan in September, has pressed government forces to go on the attack to strengthen their hand in any talks. "We've realigned support and precision lethal assets to precisely target the Taliban more often and more effectively to set conditions for the negotiated settlement," said Colonel David Butler, spokesman for US Forces Afghanistan. "We don't consider the death of these leaders decisive, unfortunately many more will die until the Taliban decide to stop fighting. The only lasting solution will be a political settlement," he said. As air strikes have increased, so has the risk of civilian casualties but Afghan security officials say, despite that danger, the local commanders remain high priority targets. The decision to target regional Taliban commanders reflects a belief that many of them oppose a peaceful settlement that would threaten lucrative tax collection operations and revenues from sources like illegal mining and narcotics. The officials say that ever since the death of former Taliban leader Mullah Akhtar Mansour in a US drone strike in 2016, field commanders have kept increasing control over finances raised in their areas. Mansour, who ran the movement's finances for Taliban founder Mullah Mohammad Omar, kept a firm grip on revenues, ensuring that commanders passed revenues up the line for later distribution. Under his successor, Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, that system changed, with field commanders given more independence and control over revenues, meaning many have an interest in seeing conflict and lawlessness go on. "Local commanders were told to earn and fund their own fighting in areas under their command. That helped them get very rich and they by no means wanted any peace," a second security official said.

Afghan forces seek to press Taliban by targeting field commanders

Afghan forces abandoned a remote district in the west of the country, leaving the area to Taliban insurgents after the government failed to resupply dozens of troops stationed there, provincial officials said on Wednesday.

Local officials said the Shebkoh district of Farah province, bordering Iran, has been under Taliban siege for months, making it difficult for the government to send reinforcements.

Mosa Nazari, deputy governor of Farah, said Afghanistan's military leadership faced difficulty supplying and reinforcing the troops in Shebkoh district and it had been decided to withdraw in order to avoid casualties.

"The plan to leave the district was there for months and it was finally decided," Nazari told Reuters, adding that the forces withdrew all ammunition and vehicles to the provincial capital of Farah.

US military advisers have regularly pressed Afghan commanders to concentrate their forces and avoid exposed outposts that are difficult to defend and supply.

The Taliban, fighting to drive out foreign forces and re-impose its version of strict Islamic Law, said in a statement the Afghan government abandoned the district after a heavy firefight overnight, and the group seized an amount of ammunition.

A sparsely populated province, Farah has been the scene of intense fighting since the beginning of the year. Afghan forces have suffered heavy losses, including the killings of dozens of well-armed elite special forces there.

Shebkoh is a route for narcotics being smuggled from Helmand, the main source of poppy cultivation in Afghanistan, to Farah and Iran.

Afghan officials have accused Tehran, which the United States says is trying to extend its influence in western Afghanistan, of providing the insurgents with money, modern weapons and explosives. Iran denies the accusation.

Areas of western Afghanistan have seen heavy fighting in recent days. Last week, at least 14 Afghan soldiers were killed and 20 captured when Taliban fighters attacked an outpost in Shindand district in Herat, the province neighbouring Farah.

Afghan and foreign forces have recently increased air strikes, targeting and killing senior Taliban commanders, including the powerful shadowy governor of Helmand province last week.

US diplomatic efforts to begin peace talks with the Taliban have picked up with appointment by Washington of Zalmay Khalilzad, a former US ambassador to Kabul, as a special peace envoy. 
&nbsp;

Afghan forces abandoned a remote district in the west of the country, leaving the area to Taliban insurgents after the government failed to resupply dozens of troops stationed there, provincial officials said on Wednesday.

Afghan forces abandoned a remote district in the west of the country, leaving the area to Taliban insurgents after the government failed to resupply dozens of troops stationed there, provincial officials said on Wednesday. Local officials said the Shebkoh district of Farah province, bordering Iran, has been under Taliban siege for months, making it difficult for the government to send reinforcements. Mosa Nazari, deputy governor of Farah, said Afghanistan's military leadership faced difficulty supplying and reinforcing the troops in Shebkoh district and it had been decided to withdraw in order to avoid casualties. "The plan to leave the district was there for months and it was finally decided," Nazari told Reuters, adding that the forces withdrew all ammunition and vehicles to the provincial capital of Farah. US military advisers have regularly pressed Afghan commanders to concentrate their forces and avoid exposed outposts that are difficult to defend and supply. The Taliban, fighting to drive out foreign forces and re-impose its version of strict Islamic Law, said in a statement the Afghan government abandoned the district after a heavy firefight overnight, and the group seized an amount of ammunition. A sparsely populated province, Farah has been the scene of intense fighting since the beginning of the year. Afghan forces have suffered heavy losses, including the killings of dozens of well-armed elite special forces there. Shebkoh is a route for narcotics being smuggled from Helmand, the main source of poppy cultivation in Afghanistan, to Farah and Iran. Afghan officials have accused Tehran, which the United States says is trying to extend its influence in western Afghanistan, of providing the insurgents with money, modern weapons and explosives. Iran denies the accusation. Areas of western Afghanistan have seen heavy fighting in recent days. Last week, at least 14 Afghan soldiers were killed and 20 captured when Taliban fighters attacked an outpost in Shindand district in Herat, the province neighbouring Farah. Afghan and foreign forces have recently increased air strikes, targeting and killing senior Taliban commanders, including the powerful shadowy governor of Helmand province last week. US diplomatic efforts to begin peace talks with the Taliban have picked up with appointment by Washington of Zalmay Khalilzad, a former US ambassador to Kabul, as a special peace envoy.

Afghan forces abandon district after Taliban pressure

The death toll from a suicide bombing targeting a convoy of security forces in Kabul early Tuesday jumped to 12, officials said.

"Twelve people including four members of the security forces were killed," ministry of interior deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told AFP. Kabul police confirmed the casualties.

The attack by the suicide bomber took place&nbsp;in Paghman district in western Kabul&nbsp;as the convoy was returning from an overnight operation.

Attacks on Afghan forces by the Taliban and the Islamic State group have been inflicting record-high casualties on security personnel this year.

In November President Ashraf Ghani said nearly 30,000 Afghan soldiers and police officers have been killed since 2015 -- a figure far higher than anything previously acknowledged.

(With inputs from AFP)

The death toll from a suicide bombing targeting a convoy of security forces in Kabul early Tuesday jumped to 12, officials said. "Twelve people including four members of the security forces were killed," ministry of interior deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told AFP.

The death toll from a suicide bombing targeting a convoy of security forces in Kabul early Tuesday jumped to 12, officials said. "Twelve people including four members of the security forces were killed," ministry of interior deputy spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told AFP. Kabul police confirmed the casualties. The attack by the suicide bomber took place in Paghman district in western Kabul as the convoy was returning from an overnight operation. Attacks on Afghan forces by the Taliban and the Islamic State group have been inflicting record-high casualties on security personnel this year. In November President Ashraf Ghani said nearly 30,000 Afghan soldiers and police officers have been killed since 2015 -- a figure far higher than anything previously acknowledged. (With inputs from AFP)

Death toll in suicide attack near Kabul jumps to 12: Officials

Probably for the first time, Pakistan has acknowledged that India has stakes in Afghanistan and that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-future-of-afghanistan-will-be-won-through-peace-talks-with-taliban-161009">its cooperation is necessary for the peace process in the war-torn country</a>.

Speaking in the National Assembly on Monday, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said Pakistan alone could not bring peace in Afghanistan as it was a "shared responsibility" of regional countries.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Imran Khan had said that peace could not be established in Afghanistan through military power. Today the US, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Taliban also wanted a solution through dialogue," The Express Tribune quoted Qureshi as saying.

"Some meetings have taken place (among key stakeholders) for establishment of peace in Afghanistan. India also has stakes in Afghanistan and its cooperation will also be needed," Qureshi said.

The US has indicated that it plans to give a role to India in Afghanistan, whereas Pakistan's stance over the years was quite clear that India had no role to play in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan perceives India's development contributions in Afghanistan as part of New Delhi's strategic encirclement policy that Islamabad feels would leave it vulnerable in any potential conflict.

He said US president Donald Trump in a letter to Prime Minister Khan had asked Pakistan to help and facilitate the peace process in Afghanistan which Qureshi said Pakistan was already doing.&nbsp;

Speaking about relations with India, Qureshi expressed the hope that New Delhi will reciprocate Pakistan's goodwill gesture of taking the initiative to open the Kartarpur corridor for Indian Sikh pilgrims.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government of India "unwillingly" had to accept the Pakistani offer to open the corridor and they later approved it through a resolution in a Cabinet meeting, he said.

Pakistan hopes that India will review its policy in Kashmir, he said.&nbsp;

Probably for the first time, Pakistan has acknowledged that India has stakes in Afghanistan and that its cooperation is necessary for the peace process in the war-torn country.

Probably for the first time, Pakistan has acknowledged that India has stakes in Afghanistan and that its cooperation is necessary for the peace process in the war-torn country. Speaking in the National Assembly on Monday, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said Pakistan alone could not bring peace in Afghanistan as it was a "shared responsibility" of regional countries. "Prime Minister Imran Khan had said that peace could not be established in Afghanistan through military power. Today the US, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Taliban also wanted a solution through dialogue," The Express Tribune quoted Qureshi as saying. "Some meetings have taken place (among key stakeholders) for establishment of peace in Afghanistan. India also has stakes in Afghanistan and its cooperation will also be needed," Qureshi said. The US has indicated that it plans to give a role to India in Afghanistan, whereas Pakistan's stance over the years was quite clear that India had no role to play in Afghanistan. Pakistan perceives India's development contributions in Afghanistan as part of New Delhi's strategic encirclement policy that Islamabad feels would leave it vulnerable in any potential conflict. He said US president Donald Trump in a letter to Prime Minister Khan had asked Pakistan to help and facilitate the peace process in Afghanistan which Qureshi said Pakistan was already doing. Speaking about relations with India, Qureshi expressed the hope that New Delhi will reciprocate Pakistan's goodwill gesture of taking the initiative to open the Kartarpur corridor for Indian Sikh pilgrims. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government of India "unwillingly" had to accept the Pakistani offer to open the corridor and they later approved it through a resolution in a Cabinet meeting, he said. Pakistan hopes that India will review its policy in Kashmir, he said.

India's role in Afghanistan peace process crucial: Pakistan

Afghanistan has suspended five officials including the president of the country's football federation over allegations of sexual and physical abuse against the national women's team, officials said Sunday.

The decision comes days after President Ashraf Ghani ordered the attorney general to conduct a "thorough investigation" into what he called "shocking" claims of abuse by male officials against members of the women's team -- allegations that were first reported in Britain's Guardian newspaper.

"The attorney general's office has suspended... the president of the football federation, his deputy, the federation's secretary general, the head of goalkeepers and the head of provincial coordinators," Jamshid Rasuli, spokesman for the attorney general, told AFP.

"To conduct the investigations thoroughly, collect evidence and to ensure justice, the team of prosecutors decided to suspend these people," he said, adding that all the suspended officials were male.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Guardian cited what it described as senior figures associated with the women's team who said the abuse had taken place in Afghanistan, including at the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) headquarters, and at a training camp in Jordan in February.

The story quoted former captain Khalida Popal -- who fled the country after receiving death threats and has spoken out previously about the discrimination women face in Afghanistan -- as saying male officials were "coercing" female players.

Popal welcomed news of the suspensions, tweeting: "If we all stand together and raise our voice and become the #Voice4voiceless no one would be dare to hurt innocents. #Football is not abuse."

Safi Sadab, an AFF spokesman, told AFP the federation was ready to "cooperate with the investigation".&nbsp;

Football's world governing body FIFA has also said it was looking into the claims, while the Danish sportswear company Hummel announced it had cancelled a sponsorship deal with the team due to the allegations.

Afghanistan has made strides to promote female football -- as well as the national side, four years ago it launched its first all-women's football league that ran in parallel with the men's.

In 2017 the female teams were sidelined by a lack of funding.

Afghanistan has suspended five officials including the president of the country's football federation over allegations of sexual and physical abuse against the national women's team, officials said Sunday.

Afghanistan has suspended five officials including the president of the country's football federation over allegations of sexual and physical abuse against the national women's team, officials said Sunday. The decision comes days after President Ashraf Ghani ordered the attorney general to conduct a "thorough investigation" into what he called "shocking" claims of abuse by male officials against members of the women's team -- allegations that were first reported in Britain's Guardian newspaper. "The attorney general's office has suspended... the president of the football federation, his deputy, the federation's secretary general, the head of goalkeepers and the head of provincial coordinators," Jamshid Rasuli, spokesman for the attorney general, told AFP. "To conduct the investigations thoroughly, collect evidence and to ensure justice, the team of prosecutors decided to suspend these people," he said, adding that all the suspended officials were male. The Guardian cited what it described as senior figures associated with the women's team who said the abuse had taken place in Afghanistan, including at the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) headquarters, and at a training camp in Jordan in February. The story quoted former captain Khalida Popal -- who fled the country after receiving death threats and has spoken out previously about the discrimination women face in Afghanistan -- as saying male officials were "coercing" female players. Popal welcomed news of the suspensions, tweeting: "If we all stand together and raise our voice and become the #Voice4voiceless no one would be dare to hurt innocents. #Football is not abuse." Safi Sadab, an AFF spokesman, told AFP the federation was ready to "cooperate with the investigation". Football's world governing body FIFA has also said it was looking into the claims, while the Danish sportswear company Hummel announced it had cancelled a sponsorship deal with the team due to the allegations. Afghanistan has made strides to promote female football -- as well as the national side, four years ago it launched its first all-women's football league that ran in parallel with the men's. In 2017 the female teams were sidelined by a lack of funding.

Afghanistan football chiefs suspended over sex abuse on women's team

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will visit Afghanistan on December 15 to hold talks with top Afghan leadership on "political reconciliation and durable peace" in the war-torn country.&nbsp;

Qureshi announced his visit to Kabul after US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan, seeking Pakistan's help with stuttering Afghan peace talks and support in bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year brutal war in the country.

Addressing a ceremony in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said it was the robustness of Pakistan's foreign policy that the US requested for assistance in Afghan issue, Radio Pakistan reported.&nbsp;

He said Pakistan was committed to Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.

The foreign minister said "he will visit Kabul on December 15 to hold talks with "Afghan leadership on political reconciliation and durable peace in Afghanistan."

Trump's letter was followed by visit to Islamabad by US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalizad who held talks with top officials and also called on Queshi and the prime minister.

It would be Qureshi's second trip to Kabul after Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government came to power in August.

In the letter, Trump "stated that his most important regional priority was achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war. In this regard, he has sought Pakistan's support and facilitation," the Foreign Office said.

The president also acknowledged that the war had cost both the US and Pakistan and emphasised that both the countries "should explore opportunities to work together and renew partnership".

The Trump administration, in the recent months, has intensified its efforts to seek a negotiated settlement of America's longest war in Afghanistan where the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers since late 2001, when it invaded the country after the 9/11 terror attacks.

The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001.&nbsp;

Pakistan and Afghanistan are trying to improve ties despite lingering suspicions and mistrust about each other.'&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Addressing the ceremony in Multan, Qureshi also said that Pakistan made the decision of opening Kartarpur Corridor to facilitate Sikh pilgrims.&nbsp;

"This step gave a message of peace and love from Pakistan,"&nbsp;he said.

He said Pakistan's foreign policy "is on a positive trajectory based on national interest and self-reliance."

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will visit Afghanistan on December 15 to hold talks with top Afghan leadership on "political reconciliation and durable peace" in the war-torn country.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will visit Afghanistan on December 15 to hold talks with top Afghan leadership on "political reconciliation and durable peace" in the war-torn country. Qureshi announced his visit to Kabul after US President Donald Trump sent a letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan, seeking Pakistan's help with stuttering Afghan peace talks and support in bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year brutal war in the country. Addressing a ceremony in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said it was the robustness of Pakistan's foreign policy that the US requested for assistance in Afghan issue, Radio Pakistan reported. He said Pakistan was committed to Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process. The foreign minister said "he will visit Kabul on December 15 to hold talks with "Afghan leadership on political reconciliation and durable peace in Afghanistan." Trump's letter was followed by visit to Islamabad by US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalizad who held talks with top officials and also called on Queshi and the prime minister. It would be Qureshi's second trip to Kabul after Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf government came to power in August. In the letter, Trump "stated that his most important regional priority was achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war. In this regard, he has sought Pakistan's support and facilitation," the Foreign Office said. The president also acknowledged that the war had cost both the US and Pakistan and emphasised that both the countries "should explore opportunities to work together and renew partnership". The Trump administration, in the recent months, has intensified its efforts to seek a negotiated settlement of America's longest war in Afghanistan where the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers since late 2001, when it invaded the country after the 9/11 terror attacks. The Taliban are fighting to flush out international forces and re-establish their regime in Afghanistan after their ouster in 2001. Pakistan and Afghanistan are trying to improve ties despite lingering suspicions and mistrust about each other.' Addressing the ceremony in Multan, Qureshi also said that Pakistan made the decision of opening Kartarpur Corridor to facilitate Sikh pilgrims. "This step gave a message of peace and love from Pakistan," he said. He said Pakistan's foreign policy "is on a positive trajectory based on national interest and self-reliance."

Pak Foreign Minister Qureshi to visit Afghanistan on December 15

India slammed Pakistan at United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) for destabilising Afghanistan and continuing to provide sanctuaries to terror organisations in its territory.&nbsp;

"Offensives are planned and launched by those who are harboured in safe havens in the neighbourhood of Afghanistan. These sanctuaries have, for years, provided safety for the dark agendas of ideologically and operationally-fused terror networks like the Taliban, Haqqani network, Daesh, Al- Qaeda and its prescribed affiliates such as the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed," said Indian Diplomat Eenam Gambhir delivering India's statement in UNGA. &nbsp;

Afghanistan has seen a number of terror attacks in 2018 in which hundreds of people have been killed. The Jalalabad suicide attack in July killed the man Sikhs including Atma Singh who was to represent the minorities in the Afghan Parliament.&nbsp;

"It is clear that the terrorists and those who plan such attacks are not interested in peace. The goalposts for them have changed" Gambhir said and added the terrorists and their supporters have now set up industries amongst them of narcotics and illegal mining in the territories they control stealing the resources of the Afghan people and to fund more violence and terrorism.

As per the latest reports on Global Terrorism Index released earlier this week, Afghanistan is now the world’s deadliest country for terrorism. One-quarter of all worldwide terrorism-related deaths during 2017 occurred in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India also slammed Security Council sanctions committee for refusing to designate new leaders of the Taliban or to freeze the assets of the slain leader of Taliban stating that peace in Afghanistan is tied to the peace and security in the entire world.

Dwelling on Pakistan- Afghanistan relationship, Afghanistan's permanent representative to UN Ambassador Mahmoud Saikal said, "No country can benefit more from a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, than Pakistan itself." &nbsp;

Kabul and Islamabad signed the Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity between Afghanistan and Pakistan ( APAPPS) in April this year. The mechanism is aimed for improved cooperation to address outstanding concerns with respect to combating terrorism, and clear measures to advance peace efforts.&nbsp;

The Assembly held its annual debate on the situation in Afghanistan during which it adopted a resolution on the matter by a record 124 vote in favour to none against, with 3 abstentions (Libya, Russian Federation, Zimbabwe).&nbsp;

India has emerged as one of the major development partners of Afghanistan in the last few years. The India-Afghanistan Air-Freight Corridor has helped Afghan products to reach India and via Chabahar port, India has connectivity to the Afghanistan market.&nbsp;

India slammed Pakistan at United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) for destabilising Afghanistan and continuing to provide sanctuaries to terror organisations in its territory.

India slammed Pakistan at United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) for destabilising Afghanistan and continuing to provide sanctuaries to terror organisations in its territory. "Offensives are planned and launched by those who are harboured in safe havens in the neighbourhood of Afghanistan. These sanctuaries have, for years, provided safety for the dark agendas of ideologically and operationally-fused terror networks like the Taliban, Haqqani network, Daesh, Al- Qaeda and its prescribed affiliates such as the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed," said Indian Diplomat Eenam Gambhir delivering India's statement in UNGA. Afghanistan has seen a number of terror attacks in 2018 in which hundreds of people have been killed. The Jalalabad suicide attack in July killed the man Sikhs including Atma Singh who was to represent the minorities in the Afghan Parliament. "It is clear that the terrorists and those who plan such attacks are not interested in peace. The goalposts for them have changed" Gambhir said and added the terrorists and their supporters have now set up industries amongst them of narcotics and illegal mining in the territories they control stealing the resources of the Afghan people and to fund more violence and terrorism. As per the latest reports on Global Terrorism Index released earlier this week, Afghanistan is now the world’s deadliest country for terrorism. One-quarter of all worldwide terrorism-related deaths during 2017 occurred in Afghanistan. India also slammed Security Council sanctions committee for refusing to designate new leaders of the Taliban or to freeze the assets of the slain leader of Taliban stating that peace in Afghanistan is tied to the peace and security in the entire world. Dwelling on Pakistan- Afghanistan relationship, Afghanistan's permanent representative to UN Ambassador Mahmoud Saikal said, "No country can benefit more from a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, than Pakistan itself." Kabul and Islamabad signed the Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity between Afghanistan and Pakistan ( APAPPS) in April this year. The mechanism is aimed for improved cooperation to address outstanding concerns with respect to combating terrorism, and clear measures to advance peace efforts. The Assembly held its annual debate on the situation in Afghanistan during which it adopted a resolution on the matter by a record 124 vote in favour to none against, with 3 abstentions (Libya, Russian Federation, Zimbabwe). India has emerged as one of the major development partners of Afghanistan in the last few years. The India-Afghanistan Air-Freight Corridor has helped Afghan products to reach India and via Chabahar port, India has connectivity to the Afghanistan market.

Terror attacks on Afghanistan planned in neighbourhood safe havens: India at UNGA

A Taliban attack in Shindad district here on Thursday night killed at least 14 soldiers of the Afghan National Army and kidnapped 20.

On one hand, provincial governor's spokesman Jailani Farhad told TOLOnews on Friday that the attack was orchestrated by Taliban militants and also confirmed the fatalities.

On the other hand, Afghanistan's Ministry of Defence noted that only 10 soldiers had been killed during the assault but did not divulge any more details.

The Ministry's spokesman Sayed Javid Ghafor further said that investigations pertaining to the incident were ongoing.

Quoting local sources, Pajhwok News Agency also reported that weapons at the outpost were taken by the Taliban militants while adding that help could only reach the region on Friday morning.

The attacks come in the wake of calls for the re-initiation of peace talks in Afghanistan, which has seen strife within its borders since the last 17 years.

Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani had recently formed a 12-member team for peace talks with the Taliban.

Meanwhile, the United States Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador, Zalmay Khalilzad, is currently on an eight-nation tour from December 2 to December 20 for accelerating the peace process in Afghanistan.

He has, until now, met with Ghani in Kabul on Thursday along with the Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, following which he departed for Moscow to hold discussions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A Taliban attack in Shindad district here on Thursday night killed at least 14 soldiers of the Afghan National Army and kidnapped 20. On one hand, provincial governor's spokesman Jailani Farhad told TOLOnews on Friday that the attack was orchestrated by Taliban militants and also confirmed the fatalities.

A Taliban attack in Shindad district here on Thursday night killed at least 14 soldiers of the Afghan National Army and kidnapped 20. On one hand, provincial governor's spokesman Jailani Farhad told TOLOnews on Friday that the attack was orchestrated by Taliban militants and also confirmed the fatalities. On the other hand, Afghanistan's Ministry of Defence noted that only 10 soldiers had been killed during the assault but did not divulge any more details. The Ministry's spokesman Sayed Javid Ghafor further said that investigations pertaining to the incident were ongoing. Quoting local sources, Pajhwok News Agency also reported that weapons at the outpost were taken by the Taliban militants while adding that help could only reach the region on Friday morning. The attacks come in the wake of calls for the re-initiation of peace talks in Afghanistan, which has seen strife within its borders since the last 17 years. Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani had recently formed a 12-member team for peace talks with the Taliban. Meanwhile, the United States Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador, Zalmay Khalilzad, is currently on an eight-nation tour from December 2 to December 20 for accelerating the peace process in Afghanistan. He has, until now, met with Ghani in Kabul on Thursday along with the Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, following which he departed for Moscow to hold discussions.

Taliban launches brutal attack on Afghan Army

Afghanistan's top election authority on Thursday rejected a ruling by the Electoral Complaints Commission that fraud and mismanagement had rendered invalid the votes cast in Kabul, the capital, during last October's parliamentary election.

The standoff between the two bodies charged with organising and managing the election highlighted the chaos around a ballot seen as a major test of Afghanistan's democratic progress that had been heavily pushed by international partners.

"The ruling by the complaints commission is a political, sentimental, unrealistic decision and is not based on credible evidence," Gulajan Abdul Badi Sayyad, the chairman of the Independent Election Commission, told a news conference.

"We strongly reject the ruling by the complaints commission."

The ballot, held on October 20 after months of wrangling and delay, was marred by accusations of voter fraud, technical problems with biometric voter verification gear and inaccurate voter lists.

"There were serious outstanding problems in Kabul that could hurt the fairness, transparency and inclusiveness of the election," Ali Reza Rohani, a spokesman for the Electoral Complaints Commission, said on Thursday.

With more than a million votes recorded in Kabul or about a quarter of the nationwide tally of roughly 4 million, cancelling the vote there would call into question the validity of the whole election.

The recommendation to cancel the vote in Kabul also fuels uncertainty over the April 20 presidential election, which election authorities have said they are considering postponing until July, due to organizational difficulties.

Any delay to the presidential election could affect hoped-for peace talks with Taliban insurgents, who have opened contacts with the United States but have so far refused to talk to the government of President Ashraf Ghani.

Authorities have still not released complete results from the October 20 parliamentary ballot, dogged by delays that pushed voting into the following day.

Afghanistan's top election authority on Thursday rejected a ruling by the Electoral Complaints Commission that fraud and mismanagement had rendered invalid the votes cast in Kabul, the capital, during last October's parliamentary election.

Afghanistan's top election authority on Thursday rejected a ruling by the Electoral Complaints Commission that fraud and mismanagement had rendered invalid the votes cast in Kabul, the capital, during last October's parliamentary election. The standoff between the two bodies charged with organising and managing the election highlighted the chaos around a ballot seen as a major test of Afghanistan's democratic progress that had been heavily pushed by international partners. "The ruling by the complaints commission is a political, sentimental, unrealistic decision and is not based on credible evidence," Gulajan Abdul Badi Sayyad, the chairman of the Independent Election Commission, told a news conference. "We strongly reject the ruling by the complaints commission." The ballot, held on October 20 after months of wrangling and delay, was marred by accusations of voter fraud, technical problems with biometric voter verification gear and inaccurate voter lists. "There were serious outstanding problems in Kabul that could hurt the fairness, transparency and inclusiveness of the election," Ali Reza Rohani, a spokesman for the Electoral Complaints Commission, said on Thursday. With more than a million votes recorded in Kabul or about a quarter of the nationwide tally of roughly 4 million, cancelling the vote there would call into question the validity of the whole election. The recommendation to cancel the vote in Kabul also fuels uncertainty over the April 20 presidential election, which election authorities have said they are considering postponing until July, due to organizational difficulties. Any delay to the presidential election could affect hoped-for peace talks with Taliban insurgents, who have opened contacts with the United States but have so far refused to talk to the government of President Ashraf Ghani. Authorities have still not released complete results from the October 20 parliamentary ballot, dogged by delays that pushed voting into the following day.

Afghan election bodies at loggerheads over vote in capital

The death toll among Afghanistan's security forces will no longer be sustainable unless urgent measures are taken to address recruiting and training issues, a top US general said Tuesday.

Since the start of 2015, when Afghan police and army units succeeded NATO as bearing responsibility for Afghanistan's security, tens of thousands of local forces have been killed, mainly in Taliban attacks.

Lieutenant General Kenneth McKenzie, who has been nominated to lead the US military's Central Command that oversees wars in the Middle East and Afghanistan, said the death rate may not be sustainable.

McKenzie said he would work urgently with General Austin Miller, the head of the NATO mission and US Forces Afghanistan, to tackle problems of recruitment, training and how the Afghans "present forces for actual execution" of missions.

"They are fighting hard, but their losses are not going to be sustainable unless we correct this problem," McKenzie told the Senate Armed Services Committee at his nomination hearing.

"It has General Miller's direct attention and, if confirmed, it would be something that I would like to work with him on as a matter of great importance."

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani last month said 28,529 Afghan security forces had been killed since the start of 2015, a figure far higher than anything previously acknowledged.

McKenzie added that Afghan forces are still unable to effectively withstand the Taliban, who have made steady gains in recent years and who now number about 60,000 in Afghanistan.

The Afghan forces are "not there yet, and if we left precipitously right now I do not believe they would be able to successfully defend their country," McKenzie said.&nbsp;

The general would take the helm of Centcom at a difficult time in Afghanistan, where 17 years since the US-led invasion violence is showing no signs of abating.

US lawmakers and President Donald Trump are growing increasingly frustrated with a succession of generals promising things may soon turn a corner and angered over the $45 billion or so America still pays annually for its involvement in Afghanistan.

McKenzie couldn't say how much longer the US will be in Afghanistan.

"I do know that today it would be very difficult for (the Afghan security forces) to survive without our and our coalition partners' assistance."

Echoing comments made last month by General Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, McKenzie said he believed the situation in Afghanistan remains a stalemate.

"The operational military situation is largely stalemated," he said, noting however that he holds out hopes for political efforts for a settlement.

If confirmed, McKenzie would gain a fourth star and replace General Joseph Votel, who is retiring.

The death toll among Afghanistan's security forces will no longer be sustainable unless urgent measures are taken to address recruiting and training issues, a top US general said Tuesday.

The death toll among Afghanistan's security forces will no longer be sustainable unless urgent measures are taken to address recruiting and training issues, a top US general said Tuesday. Since the start of 2015, when Afghan police and army units succeeded NATO as bearing responsibility for Afghanistan's security, tens of thousands of local forces have been killed, mainly in Taliban attacks. Lieutenant General Kenneth McKenzie, who has been nominated to lead the US military's Central Command that oversees wars in the Middle East and Afghanistan, said the death rate may not be sustainable. McKenzie said he would work urgently with General Austin Miller, the head of the NATO mission and US Forces Afghanistan, to tackle problems of recruitment, training and how the Afghans "present forces for actual execution" of missions. "They are fighting hard, but their losses are not going to be sustainable unless we correct this problem," McKenzie told the Senate Armed Services Committee at his nomination hearing. "It has General Miller's direct attention and, if confirmed, it would be something that I would like to work with him on as a matter of great importance." Afghan President Ashraf Ghani last month said 28,529 Afghan security forces had been killed since the start of 2015, a figure far higher than anything previously acknowledged. McKenzie added that Afghan forces are still unable to effectively withstand the Taliban, who have made steady gains in recent years and who now number about 60,000 in Afghanistan. The Afghan forces are "not there yet, and if we left precipitously right now I do not believe they would be able to successfully defend their country," McKenzie said. The general would take the helm of Centcom at a difficult time in Afghanistan, where 17 years since the US-led invasion violence is showing no signs of abating. US lawmakers and President Donald Trump are growing increasingly frustrated with a succession of generals promising things may soon turn a corner and angered over the $45 billion or so America still pays annually for its involvement in Afghanistan. McKenzie couldn't say how much longer the US will be in Afghanistan. "I do know that today it would be very difficult for (the Afghan security forces) to survive without our and our coalition partners' assistance." Echoing comments made last month by General Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, McKenzie said he believed the situation in Afghanistan remains a stalemate. "The operational military situation is largely stalemated," he said, noting however that he holds out hopes for political efforts for a settlement. If confirmed, McKenzie would gain a fourth star and replace General Joseph Votel, who is retiring.

Afghan security losses may not be sustainable: US general

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told America's special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan are in Islamabad's abiding interest and he will continue to support peace efforts in the war-torn neighbouring country.

Khan held talks with Khalilzad, who arrived here on Tuesday to coordinate closely with the Pakistani leadership on the US efforts to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year-long war in Afghanistan.

The prime minister "reiterated Pakistan's abiding interest in achieving peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan through a political settlement," according to a statement by the PM Office.

"Pakistan wants a political solution to Afghan peace and reconciliation," he told Khalilzad.

During the meeting, the US special envoy conveyed President Donald Trump's best wishes.

"The US leadership is looking for a peaceful solution to the Afghan peace process and mutual cooperation between the two sides," Khalilzad told the premier.

Khalilzad also met Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and reiterated President Trump's desire to seek Pakistan's cooperation for peace and stability in Afghanistan, according to a Foreign Office spokesman.

"The FM assured the US side of Pakistan's steadfast support for a negotiated settlement," said the spokesman.

"Pakistan will continue to cooperate with sincerity for a political settlement in Afghanistan. Long-lasting peace in Afghanistan is in Pakistan's best interest," Qureshi tweeted.

Khalilzad also held a meeting with Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua, where officials from diplomatic, security and defence from both sides present at the meeting.

"Peace and political settlement in Afghanistan was discussed," according to the spokesman.

Pakistan is accused by both US and Afghanistan of supporting the Taliban&nbsp;who have waged a more than a 17-year old insurgency.

Pakistan maintains that the Taliban have long shifted to Afghanistan where they control a sizeable area and that it has little control over them.

Khalilzad arrived here a day after Pakistan announced that President&nbsp;Trump has written a letter to Prime Minister Khan, seeking Islamabad's&nbsp;"assistance and facilitation in achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war."

Khan told the media on Monday that resolution of the conflict in Afghanistan was also in the best interest of Pakistan, which always made serious efforts to bring peace in the neighbouring country.

Khalilzad will also travel to other regional countries including Afghanistan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar to seek support for his mission.

Afghan-origin Khalilzad served as a special envoy of President George W Bush following the fall of the Taliban government in 2001. He also served as US ambassador to Afghanistan.

He is seen in Pakistan as a hawk who has often accused Islamabad of supporting Taliban militants.

It's his second visit to Pakistan following his appointment as special representative and reflects the Trump administration's intent to support, facilitate, and participate in a peace process in Afghanistan.

After his first trip in October, Pakistan announced that it released senior Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar to help in the efforts of peace in Afghanistan.

Baradar, the former right-hand man of Taliban founder Mullah Omar, was among several senior Taliban leaders freed in recent months, after the Taliban demanded their release in direct talks with Khalilzad on October 12.

It is believed that Mulla Baradar's release would help persuade Afghan Taliban to lay down arms and negotiate in new peace talks.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told America's special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan are in Islamabad's abiding interest and he will continue to support peace efforts in the war-torn neighbouring country.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told America's special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan are in Islamabad's abiding interest and he will continue to support peace efforts in the war-torn neighbouring country. Khan held talks with Khalilzad, who arrived here on Tuesday to coordinate closely with the Pakistani leadership on the US efforts to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end the 17-year-long war in Afghanistan. The prime minister "reiterated Pakistan's abiding interest in achieving peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan through a political settlement," according to a statement by the PM Office. "Pakistan wants a political solution to Afghan peace and reconciliation," he told Khalilzad. During the meeting, the US special envoy conveyed President Donald Trump's best wishes. "The US leadership is looking for a peaceful solution to the Afghan peace process and mutual cooperation between the two sides," Khalilzad told the premier. Khalilzad also met Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and reiterated President Trump's desire to seek Pakistan's cooperation for peace and stability in Afghanistan, according to a Foreign Office spokesman. "The FM assured the US side of Pakistan's steadfast support for a negotiated settlement," said the spokesman. "Pakistan will continue to cooperate with sincerity for a political settlement in Afghanistan. Long-lasting peace in Afghanistan is in Pakistan's best interest," Qureshi tweeted. Khalilzad also held a meeting with Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua, where officials from diplomatic, security and defence from both sides present at the meeting. "Peace and political settlement in Afghanistan was discussed," according to the spokesman. Pakistan is accused by both US and Afghanistan of supporting the Taliban who have waged a more than a 17-year old insurgency. Pakistan maintains that the Taliban have long shifted to Afghanistan where they control a sizeable area and that it has little control over them. Khalilzad arrived here a day after Pakistan announced that President Trump has written a letter to Prime Minister Khan, seeking Islamabad's "assistance and facilitation in achieving a negotiated settlement of the Afghan war." Khan told the media on Monday that resolution of the conflict in Afghanistan was also in the best interest of Pakistan, which always made serious efforts to bring peace in the neighbouring country. Khalilzad will also travel to other regional countries including Afghanistan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar to seek support for his mission. Afghan-origin Khalilzad served as a special envoy of President George W Bush following the fall of the Taliban government in 2001. He also served as US ambassador to Afghanistan. He is seen in Pakistan as a hawk who has often accused Islamabad of supporting Taliban militants. It's his second visit to Pakistan following his appointment as special representative and reflects the Trump administration's intent to support, facilitate, and participate in a peace process in Afghanistan. After his first trip in October, Pakistan announced that it released senior Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar to help in the efforts of peace in Afghanistan. Baradar, the former right-hand man of Taliban founder Mullah Omar, was among several senior Taliban leaders freed in recent months, after the Taliban demanded their release in direct talks with Khalilzad on October 12. It is believed that Mulla Baradar's release would help persuade Afghan Taliban to lay down arms and negotiate in new peace talks.

Pak supports peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan: Imran Khan tells US special envoy

afghanistan-0

Afghanistan, News on Afghanistan, stories on Afghanistan, articles on Afghanistan, Afghanistan stories at Wion, Afghanistan news, Afghanistan latest news

afghanistan 0