Taliban continues&nbsp;its surge across <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dear-world-leaders-dont-leave-afghanistan-in-chaos-cricketer-rashid-khan-404512">Afghanistan</a> with the capture of two more provincial cities with a total of eight provinces seized in the last couple of days.

Amid the Taliban advance, US President Biden said he did&nbsp;regret his decision&nbsp;to pull US troops out of the region as the militants took Farah city and Pul-e-Khumri in Baghlan.

"I do not regret my decision," the US President said.

President Biden had announced last month that all US troops will be out of Afghanistan by August 31 which is now just weeks away even as the Taliban continues its sweep through the country.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-asks-citizens-to-leave-mazar-e-sharif-as-taliban-avances-its-moves-404463/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The militant group had said earlier that its men were now headed towards the country's second-biggest city <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/grave-concern-taliban-advance-towards-mazar-i-sharif-after-weekend-blitz-404348">Mazar-i-Sharif</a>. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-to-evacuate-diplomats-and-citizens-from-mazar-e-sharif-consulate-in-afghanistan-404430">Indian</a> government sent a special flight to Maza-i-Sharif on Tuesday to evacuate diplomats and Indian nations. &nbsp;

At least &nbsp;1500 Indian nationals are currently involved in various development projects in Afghanistan. Reports say Taliban fighters are closing in on Aibak, a provincial capital between Mazar-i-Sharif and Kabul.

"Afghan leaders have to come together, they have got to fight for themselves, fight for their nation," US President Biden said.

The US president added that&nbsp;the country had spent over $1 trillion since September 2001 and lost thousands of troops during its fight against the Taliban and to restore the country.

Taliban had begun its offensive in mid-May and have annexed several strategic border crossings along the Pakistan, Iran and Tajikistan border as US troops pull out of the region.

Although the US has been carrying out airstrikes along with Afghan pilots but it is unclear whether it would continue beyond August 31.

Meanwhile, UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet said the Taliban's recent offensive which involved "deeply disturbing reports" of executions could amount to war crimes, adding, "People rightly fear that a seizure of power by the Taliban will erase the human rights gains of the past two decades.”

(With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban continues its surge across Afghanistan with the capture of two more provincial cities with a total of eight provinces seized in the last couple of days. Amid the Taliban advance, US President Biden said he did regret his decision to pull US troops out of the region as the militants took Farah city and Pul-e-Khumri in Baghlan.

Taliban continues its surge across Afghanistan with the capture of two more provincial cities with a total of eight provinces seized in the last couple of days. Amid the Taliban advance, US President Biden said he did regret his decision to pull US troops out of the region as the militants took Farah city and Pul-e-Khumri in Baghlan. "I do not regret my decision," the US President said. President Biden had announced last month that all US troops will be out of Afghanistan by August 31 which is now just weeks away even as the Taliban continues its sweep through the country. Watch: The militant group had said earlier that its men were now headed towards the country's second-biggest city Mazar-i-Sharif. The Indian government sent a special flight to Maza-i-Sharif on Tuesday to evacuate diplomats and Indian nations. At least 1500 Indian nationals are currently involved in various development projects in Afghanistan. Reports say Taliban fighters are closing in on Aibak, a provincial capital between Mazar-i-Sharif and Kabul. "Afghan leaders have to come together, they have got to fight for themselves, fight for their nation," US President Biden said. The US president added that the country had spent over $1 trillion since September 2001 and lost thousands of troops during its fight against the Taliban and to restore the country. Taliban had begun its offensive in mid-May and have annexed several strategic border crossings along the Pakistan, Iran and Tajikistan border as US troops pull out of the region. Although the US has been carrying out airstrikes along with Afghan pilots but it is unclear whether it would continue beyond August 31. Meanwhile, UN human rights chief Michelle Bachelet said the Taliban's recent offensive which involved "deeply disturbing reports" of executions could amount to war crimes, adding, "People rightly fear that a seizure of power by the Taliban will erase the human rights gains of the past two decades.” (With inputs from Agencies)

I do not regret my decision, says Biden as two more cities fall to Taliban in Afghanistan

Two days after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani blamed the role of US forces for worsening security situation in the country, Afghanistan President's special envoy Umer Daudzai slammed Ghani's remarks. "US decision to withdraw troops is a big mistake", says Afghanistan President's special envoy Umer Daudzai while speaking to WION and blamed the US for the Afghan security situation.

Afghanistan President's special envoy Umer Daudzai slams US

The Afghan Taliban is setting new terms of engagement. The Taliban has said that it will only drop arms if Ashraf Ghani steps down as Afghanistan's president, and a 'negotiated government' is installed in Kabul.

Gravitas: Taliban wants Ashraf Ghani to step down as president

Cops in Toronto thrashed homeless people camping in a public park and arrested protesters who supported them. Despite his record of commenting on protests all over the world, PM Justin Trudeau is yet to condemn what happened in Toronto.

Gravitas: Canadian cops thrash the homeless, Trudeau silent

In a major mark of respect and homage, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday called the father of slain Indian journalist Danish Siddiqui. During the phone conversation, he extended condolence to him.&nbsp;

The readout from the Afghan Presidential palace said, "&nbsp;President Ashraf Ghani in a phone call today, extended his deep condolence to father of Danish Siddiqui, the Reuters Agency's Indian photojournalist who was recently killed during Taliban Attack in Spin Boldak district of Kandahar".&nbsp;

"The late journalist's father expressed gratitude to President Ghani for his condolence."

Aziz Amin, Special Secretary to the Afghan president's called and in a tweet said:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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This afternoon, H.E President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashrafghani</a> called Professor Sediqi, father of <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Reuters</a> journalist late Danish Sediqi &amp; conveyed his condolences over the death of his son to his family, friends &amp; colleagues. Th Pres termed his death as a great loss for th journalism fraternity. <a href="https://t.co/bAkVGLyfFi">pic.twitter.com/bAkVGLyfFi</a>
— Aziz Amin (@azizamin786) <a href="https://twitter.com/azizamin786/status/1418210153598316554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This is the highest level of respect from the Afghan government.&nbsp;Earlier the Afghan foreign ministry was quick to extend its condolences on his death and reaffirmed the country's commitment to freedom of expression.

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پیام‌ تسلیت وزارت امور خارجه پیرامون قتل خبرنگار‌ رویترز 
 
۲۶ سرطان ۱۴۰۰ 
---------------------------------<a href="https://t.co/VvzGWeckVY">https://t.co/VvzGWeckVY</a> <a href="https://t.co/RwvvGnx19W">pic.twitter.com/RwvvGnx19W</a>
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Afghanistan 🇦🇫 (@mfa_afghanistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_afghanistan/status/1416300434260643845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Danish's mortal remains were brought back to India on Sunday and he was buried in his Alma mater Jamia Millia Islamia. India had raised the killing of the journalist at the United Nations Security Council.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla said, "We condemn the killing of Indian Photo Journalist Danish Siddiqui while he was on a reporting assignment in Kandahar in Afghanistan yesterday. I extend our sincerest condolences to his bereaved family."

Indian Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur, media bodies like Foreign Correspondents Club (FCC) of South Asia, and the Press Club of India (PCI) also paid homage to the Pulitzer Prize winner Siddiqui.

In a major mark of respect and homage, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday called the father of slain Indian journalist Danish Siddiqui. During the phone conversation, he extended condolence to him.

In a major mark of respect and homage, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday called the father of slain Indian journalist Danish Siddiqui. During the phone conversation, he extended condolence to him. The readout from the Afghan Presidential palace said, " President Ashraf Ghani in a phone call today, extended his deep condolence to father of Danish Siddiqui, the Reuters Agency's Indian photojournalist who was recently killed during Taliban Attack in Spin Boldak district of Kandahar". "The late journalist's father expressed gratitude to President Ghani for his condolence." Aziz Amin, Special Secretary to the Afghan president's called and in a tweet said: This afternoon, H.E President @ashrafghani called Professor Sediqi, father of @Reuters journalist late Danish Sediqi & conveyed his condolences over the death of his son to his family, friends & colleagues. Th Pres termed his death as a great loss for th journalism fraternity. pic.twitter.com/bAkVGLyfFi — Aziz Amin (@azizamin786) July 22, 2021 × This is the highest level of respect from the Afghan government. Earlier the Afghan foreign ministry was quick to extend its condolences on his death and reaffirmed the country's commitment to freedom of expression. پیام‌ تسلیت وزارت امور خارجه پیرامون قتل خبرنگار‌ رویترز ۲۶ سرطان ۱۴۰۰ ---------------------------------https://t.co/VvzGWeckVY pic.twitter.com/RwvvGnx19W — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Afghanistan 🇦🇫 (@mfa_afghanistan) July 17, 2021 × Danish's mortal remains were brought back to India on Sunday and he was buried in his Alma mater Jamia Millia Islamia. India had raised the killing of the journalist at the United Nations Security Council. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla said, "We condemn the killing of Indian Photo Journalist Danish Siddiqui while he was on a reporting assignment in Kandahar in Afghanistan yesterday. I extend our sincerest condolences to his bereaved family." Indian Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur, media bodies like Foreign Correspondents Club (FCC) of South Asia, and the Press Club of India (PCI) also paid homage to the Pulitzer Prize winner Siddiqui.

Afghan president calls Indian journalist Danish Siddiqui's father and extends condolences

Kabul: President Ashraf Ghani on Monday slams Taliban for 'not having any intention to maintain peace and prosperity in the region'. The statement comes out as At least three rockets hit near the presidential palace on Tuesday shortly before Afghan president Ashraf Ghani was to give an address to mark the major Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha.

'Taliban has no intention for peace', slams Afghan Prez Ashraf Ghani

Rockets landed near the Afghan presidential palace in Kabul as Ashraf Ghani and a group of other leaders marked the start of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha with prayers in the garden.

Breaking News: Rockets land near Presidential palace in Kabul

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has visited the Balkh province in the north to access the ongoing situation. Ghani said that the security situation across the country will improve significantly in the next three months.

Afghanistan President Ghani visits Balkh province to access situation

Taliban fighters are advancing across Afghanistan, an offensive that has accelerated as US and NATO troops withdraw from the country after a 20-year-long war.

In the past week, the Taliban have overrun areas bordering five countries: Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, China, and Pakistan.

Never has the militant movement appeared so strong since being toppled by US forces two decades ago.

It has executed a string of offensives across Afghanistan, capturing fully or partially about 100 out of more than 400 districts at a dizzying rate since early May.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-troops-in-afghanistan-the-20-year-war-377951/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

How bad is the situation, really?

Afghanistan can possibly be on a path to civil war, according to the head of Britain's armed forces.

Nick Carter, Britain's Chief of the Defence Staff, said it was "plausible" that the country's state would collapse without international forces there. He was speaking after it was announced that most British soldiers have left Afghanistan.

Afghanistan could see a situation like 1990s civil war "where you would see a culture of warlordism and you might see some of the important institutions like security forces fracturing along ethnic, or for that matter, tribal lines," Carter said.

<img alt="Afghanistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62f64000-a417-41ad-8b1f-7d46987c5c22" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2814%29_29.jpg" />

AFP MAP: Showing parts of Afghanistan currently under government control and territories under the influence of the Taliban

How did Afghanistan get here?

Started as a US-led offensive in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks, the war has claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Afghans. Around 2,400 US soldiers also died.&nbsp;

Trillions of dollars were squandered in what has largely been deemed a failed nation-building project.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-return-of-taliban-in-afghanistan-and-the-us-retreat-396932">In Pics | The return of Taliban in Afghanistan, and the US retreat</a>

What began as a mission to dismantle Al-Qaeda's training camps in Afghanistan evolved over the years into a full-scale war against their Taliban hosts, triggering an insurgency that the US military's enormous firepower was unable to quell.

The killing of Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden in Pakistan in 2011 by US special forces renewed debate about the purpose of continuing the fight and eventually led to a failed effort to spur talks with the Taliban.

President Donald Trump's election spelled the beginning of the end for the American involvement in Afghanistan.

It culminated in a landmark withdrawal deal hammered out between Washington and the Taliban's leadership in February 2020 in Qatar.

The beginning of the end of US presence in the country came in April with Trump's successor Joe Biden announcing that remaining US troops would be pulled from the country ahead of the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, prompting America's NATO allies to follow suit.

Is Afghanistan going back to square one?

The US departure leaves Afghanistan facing an uncertain future, with an increasingly confident Taliban appearing to set the stage for a military takeover, and another round of internecine civil war.

The international community blames the Taliban for stalling landmark peace talks with the Afghan government in Doha as they focused on positioning their troops for a military takeover instead of a political statement.

<img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5e065e11-4477-49a9-a780-cbe3bbf86c44" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2816%29_26.jpg" />

In picture: Members of Taliban political office Abdul Latif Mansoor (L), Shahabuddin Delawar (C) and Suhail Shaheen attend a news conference in Moscow, Russia/Reuters

&nbsp;Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani, known for his academic disposition and infamous temper, is said to be increasingly isolated at a moment when he is in desperate need of allies.

&nbsp;He has remained defiant despite mounting pressure on his government in the face of territorial losses.

A bleak future

&nbsp;Afghanistan's warlords may be waiting to make a comeback as the country's security forces increasingly look to militia groups to bolster their depleted ranks.

As the Taliban battered their way through the north in June, a call for national mobilisation was sounded, with thousands taking up arms in scenes reminiscent of the 1990s civil war.

New strongmen among Afghanistan's ethnic minorities have also begun arming and training recruits, which may further inflame the country's deep ethnic and sectarian divisions.

Pakistan has backed the Taliban for decades and may finally be able to cash its chips in a future government the insurgents either participate in or lead. 
Islamabad's major goal will focus on preventing arch-rival India from establishing any influence and posing a threat to its western border. Iran is also hedging its bets. 
After nearly going to war with the Taliban in the 1990s, Tehran has engineered considerable clout over at least one major faction within the group.

It also retains links with warlords who fought the Taliban during the country's civil war.

The coming days will see these various permutations and combinations play out on the ground.

Biden and Trump claim to have stopped a never-ending war. That may be true for the US troops.

But for Afghanistan, a new war may just be starting.&nbsp;

This time, between brothers.

Taliban fighters are advancing across Afghanistan, an offensive that has accelerated as US and NATO troops withdraw from the country after a 20-year-long war. In the past week, the Taliban have overrun areas bordering five countries: Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, China, and Pakistan.

Taliban fighters are advancing across Afghanistan, an offensive that has accelerated as US and NATO troops withdraw from the country after a 20-year-long war. In the past week, the Taliban have overrun areas bordering five countries: Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, China, and Pakistan. Never has the militant movement appeared so strong since being toppled by US forces two decades ago. It has executed a string of offensives across Afghanistan, capturing fully or partially about 100 out of more than 400 districts at a dizzying rate since early May. How bad is the situation, really? Afghanistan can possibly be on a path to civil war, according to the head of Britain's armed forces. Nick Carter, Britain's Chief of the Defence Staff, said it was "plausible" that the country's state would collapse without international forces there. He was speaking after it was announced that most British soldiers have left Afghanistan. Afghanistan could see a situation like 1990s civil war "where you would see a culture of warlordism and you might see some of the important institutions like security forces fracturing along ethnic, or for that matter, tribal lines," Carter said. AFP MAP: Showing parts of Afghanistan currently under government control and territories under the influence of the Taliban How did Afghanistan get here? Started as a US-led offensive in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terror attacks, the war has claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Afghans. Around 2,400 US soldiers also died. Trillions of dollars were squandered in what has largely been deemed a failed nation-building project. Also see| In Pics | The return of Taliban in Afghanistan, and the US retreat What began as a mission to dismantle Al-Qaeda's training camps in Afghanistan evolved over the years into a full-scale war against their Taliban hosts, triggering an insurgency that the US military's enormous firepower was unable to quell. The killing of Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden in Pakistan in 2011 by US special forces renewed debate about the purpose of continuing the fight and eventually led to a failed effort to spur talks with the Taliban. President Donald Trump's election spelled the beginning of the end for the American involvement in Afghanistan. It culminated in a landmark withdrawal deal hammered out between Washington and the Taliban's leadership in February 2020 in Qatar. The beginning of the end of US presence in the country came in April with Trump's successor Joe Biden announcing that remaining US troops would be pulled from the country ahead of the 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, prompting America's NATO allies to follow suit. Is Afghanistan going back to square one? The US departure leaves Afghanistan facing an uncertain future, with an increasingly confident Taliban appearing to set the stage for a military takeover, and another round of internecine civil war. The international community blames the Taliban for stalling landmark peace talks with the Afghan government in Doha as they focused on positioning their troops for a military takeover instead of a political statement. In picture: Members of Taliban political office Abdul Latif Mansoor (L), Shahabuddin Delawar (C) and Suhail Shaheen attend a news conference in Moscow, Russia/Reuters Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani, known for his academic disposition and infamous temper, is said to be increasingly isolated at a moment when he is in desperate need of allies. He has remained defiant despite mounting pressure on his government in the face of territorial losses. A bleak future Afghanistan's warlords may be waiting to make a comeback as the country's security forces increasingly look to militia groups to bolster their depleted ranks. As the Taliban battered their way through the north in June, a call for national mobilisation was sounded, with thousands taking up arms in scenes reminiscent of the 1990s civil war. New strongmen among Afghanistan's ethnic minorities have also begun arming and training recruits, which may further inflame the country's deep ethnic and sectarian divisions. Pakistan has backed the Taliban for decades and may finally be able to cash its chips in a future government the insurgents either participate in or lead. Islamabad's major goal will focus on preventing arch-rival India from establishing any influence and posing a threat to its western border. Iran is also hedging its bets. After nearly going to war with the Taliban in the 1990s, Tehran has engineered considerable clout over at least one major faction within the group. It also retains links with warlords who fought the Taliban during the country's civil war. The coming days will see these various permutations and combinations play out on the ground. Biden and Trump claim to have stopped a never-ending war. That may be true for the US troops. But for Afghanistan, a new war may just be starting. This time, between brothers.

Staring at civil war: How bad is the situation in Afghanistan?

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Tuesday said that the Taliban cannot make the Afghan government surrender even in the next one hundred years.

The Khaama Press reported that Ghani in a cabinet meeting at the presidential palace of Afghanistan also said that the Taliban and its supporters are solely responsible for the current bloodshed and destruction in the country.

National Security Advisor Hamdullah Muhib said that the Taliban`s territory expansion does not mean they are being welcomed by Afghans, and added that people are ready to defend their territories.

He also informed that seven black hawk choppers are soon to be handed over to Afghan National Defense and Security forces that will help bring the ongoing conflict under control.

Meanwhile, the country`s Defence Ministry informed that over 200 Taliban terrorists have been killed in the last 24 hours. Taliban, on the other hand, claimed that they have captured six more districts in the same duration.

At least 10,000 members of Afghan commando forces are engaged in suppressing the Taliban across the country.

Afghanistan has been witnessing a surge in violence as the Taliban has intensified its offensive against the government. This comes as foreign forces are withdrawing from the war-torn country.

As the Taliban have taken control of several districts across the country, US intelligence assessments have suggested the country`s civilian government could fall to the terror group within months of US forces withdrawing completely.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Tuesday said that the Taliban cannot make the Afghan government surrender even in the next one hundred years. The Khaama Press reported that Ghani in a cabinet meeting at the presidential palace of Afghanistan also said that the Taliban and its supporters are solely responsible for the current bloodshed and destruction in the country.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Tuesday said that the Taliban cannot make the Afghan government surrender even in the next one hundred years. The Khaama Press reported that Ghani in a cabinet meeting at the presidential palace of Afghanistan also said that the Taliban and its supporters are solely responsible for the current bloodshed and destruction in the country. National Security Advisor Hamdullah Muhib said that the Taliban`s territory expansion does not mean they are being welcomed by Afghans, and added that people are ready to defend their territories. He also informed that seven black hawk choppers are soon to be handed over to Afghan National Defense and Security forces that will help bring the ongoing conflict under control. Meanwhile, the country`s Defence Ministry informed that over 200 Taliban terrorists have been killed in the last 24 hours. Taliban, on the other hand, claimed that they have captured six more districts in the same duration. At least 10,000 members of Afghan commando forces are engaged in suppressing the Taliban across the country. Afghanistan has been witnessing a surge in violence as the Taliban has intensified its offensive against the government. This comes as foreign forces are withdrawing from the war-torn country. As the Taliban have taken control of several districts across the country, US intelligence assessments have suggested the country`s civilian government could fall to the terror group within months of US forces withdrawing completely.

Ghani says Taliban cannot make Afghan government surrender, even in 100 years

US president Joe Biden met his Afghan counterpart Ashraf Ghani at the white house on Friday to demonstrate a continuing US commitment to Afghanistan. Watch this report to know more.

Biden: Afghans are going to have to decide their future

Ashraf Ghani meet US President Joe Biden at White House

US president Joe Biden met his Afghan counterpart Ashraf Ghani at the white house on Friday to demonstrate a continuing u.s commitment to Afghanistan. Watch this report to know more.

US President Joe Biden calls on Afghans to 'decide their future' as withdrawal nears end

Abdullah Abdullah, the chief of Afghanistan's peace council said on Friday that talks with Taliban on political settlement should not be abandoned despite Taliban attacks unless the insurgents themselves pull out. The talks have been long-stalled.

“I think we shouldn’t shut the door unless it’s completely shut by the Taliban,” Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation, told Reuters in an interview. “We can’t say no to talks despite a lack of progress or in spite of what’s happening on the ground.”

He spoke after he accompanied Afghan Prsident Ashraf Ghani as they met US President Joe Biden at White House. The talks remained focussed on US military and civilian aid and issues stemming from the departure of the last U.S. troops nearly 20 years after the U.S.-led invasion.

Biden told Ghani and Abdullah that “Afghans are going to have to decide their future” and the “senseless violence has to stop.”

The fighting, however, has raised grave doubts about long-stalled US-backed peace negotiations between the insurgents and a delegation that includes government officials that began in Doha under the Trump administration in 2020.

Abdullah said there was “perhaps more optimism” about a peace deal when the negotiations began because “the Taliban said things to different interlocutors that created optimism.”

Still, Abdullah said, the talks should not be abandoned.

“Eventually, the last man killed will not be a solution,” he said. “There has to be a peaceful settlement.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Abdullah Abdullah, the chief of Afghanistan's peace council said on Friday that talks with Taliban on political settlement should not be abandoned despite Taliban attacks unless the insurgents themselves pull out.

Abdullah Abdullah, the chief of Afghanistan's peace council said on Friday that talks with Taliban on political settlement should not be abandoned despite Taliban attacks unless the insurgents themselves pull out. The talks have been long-stalled. “I think we shouldn’t shut the door unless it’s completely shut by the Taliban,” Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation, told Reuters in an interview. “We can’t say no to talks despite a lack of progress or in spite of what’s happening on the ground.” He spoke after he accompanied Afghan Prsident Ashraf Ghani as they met US President Joe Biden at White House. The talks remained focussed on US military and civilian aid and issues stemming from the departure of the last U.S. troops nearly 20 years after the U.S.-led invasion. Biden told Ghani and Abdullah that “Afghans are going to have to decide their future” and the “senseless violence has to stop.” The fighting, however, has raised grave doubts about long-stalled US-backed peace negotiations between the insurgents and a delegation that includes government officials that began in Doha under the Trump administration in 2020. Abdullah said there was “perhaps more optimism” about a peace deal when the negotiations began because “the Taliban said things to different interlocutors that created optimism.” Still, Abdullah said, the talks should not be abandoned. “Eventually, the last man killed will not be a solution,” he said. “There has to be a peaceful settlement.” (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan peace talks should go on unless Taliban pull out: Abdullah

A press videographer who was traveling with President Ashraf Ghani's&nbsp;delegation&nbsp;tested&nbsp;positive&nbsp;for&nbsp;COVID-19, claims the Congress's Office of Attending Physician on Friday. Ghani is in Washington this week for a round of meetings with U.S. President Joe Biden and congressional leaders, as the last US&nbsp;troops prepare to leave&nbsp;Afghanistan.

The videographer was not inside the meeting with congressional leaders, but had attended a photo op by Ghani and the House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a source familiar with the situation said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chauvin-gets-22-12-years-in-prison-for-george-floyds-death-394037">Also Read |&nbsp;Chauvin gets 22 1/2 years in prison for George Floyd's death</a>

"It was our understanding that everybody in the&nbsp;delegation&nbsp;was vaccinated," the source said. The US military has completed more than half of its withdrawal from&nbsp;Afghanistan and is set to finish within weeks.

Fighting between US&nbsp;troops and the Taliban have escalated since April when Biden announced the withdrawal. The Pentagon estimates the Taliban now controls 81 of&nbsp;Afghanistan's 419&nbsp;district centres.

Lawmakers have expressed concern about how women will be treated if the Taliban seizes control after the US&nbsp;troop withdrawal. "We look forward to having a conversation about how we strengthen our relationship through humanitarian assistance," US&nbsp;House of Representatives" Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in remarks before the meeting.

Between 600 and 700 troops are likely to remain in the country to provide security for diplomats, officials say.

A press videographer who was traveling with President Ashraf Ghani's delegation tested positive for COVID-19, claims the Congress's Office of Attending Physician on Friday.

A press videographer who was traveling with President Ashraf Ghani's delegation tested positive for COVID-19, claims the Congress's Office of Attending Physician on Friday. Ghani is in Washington this week for a round of meetings with U.S. President Joe Biden and congressional leaders, as the last US troops prepare to leave Afghanistan. The videographer was not inside the meeting with congressional leaders, but had attended a photo op by Ghani and the House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a source familiar with the situation said. Also Read | Chauvin gets 22 1/2 years in prison for George Floyd's death "It was our understanding that everybody in the delegation was vaccinated," the source said. The US military has completed more than half of its withdrawal from Afghanistan and is set to finish within weeks. Fighting between US troops and the Taliban have escalated since April when Biden announced the withdrawal. The Pentagon estimates the Taliban now controls 81 of Afghanistan's 419 district centres. Lawmakers have expressed concern about how women will be treated if the Taliban seizes control after the US troop withdrawal. "We look forward to having a conversation about how we strengthen our relationship through humanitarian assistance," US House of Representatives" Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in remarks before the meeting. Between 600 and 700 troops are likely to remain in the country to provide security for diplomats, officials say.

Afghan journalist in presidential delegation tests positive for COVID-19

Afghan leader Ashraf Ghani faces the cold reality of the end of US military presence in Afghanistan Friday when he meets with President Joe Biden in the White House.

With his government under increasing threat from an emboldened Taliban insurgency, Ghani will be hoping for a significant commitment of US aid for his government, which will be without the on-the-ground support of US forces for the first time in nearly two decades.

But any hopes for a delay in America's exit from its longest war are likely to be snuffed.

Biden has ordered the departure of all US forces from Afghanistan by this year's 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks that triggered the invasion, saying he believes that no more can be achieved.

The final pullout, announced in April, has moved fast and some speculate the exit of some 2,500 US troops and 16,000 civilian contractors could be mostly completed in July.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deaths-outnumber-births-in-britain-for-the-first-time-since-1976-393790">Also Read |&nbsp;Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976</a>

"This visit is first about our ongoing commitment and support to the Afghan people and to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces," White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said Thursday.

"The president will emphasize the need for unity, cohesion, and for the Afghan government to focus on key challenges Afghanistan faces."

Deep uncertainty as Taliban gain&nbsp;

Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, who is in charge of stalled negotiations with the Taliban on a power-sharing deal, arrived in Washington on Thursday as the rebels continued to gain ground in the country, both physically and propaganda-wise.

The looming US exit has left the country in a deep state of uncertainty, with many worried about the return to power of extremists who applied a brutal version of Islam to the population when they ruled from 1996-2001.

The Wall Street Journal reported that a new US intelligence report assesses that the Taliban could possibly capture Kabul within six months -- though other experts downplay that scenario, at least in the short-term.

Still, the situation is being compared to the US withdrawal from Vietnam in 1973.&nbsp;

Two years later, the South Vietnamese government that Washington had backed and then abandoned fell to North Vietnamese troops.

Enduring commitment

Still apparently hoping to slow the US pullout, Ghani and Abdullah met Thursday with members of Congress, many of whom criticize Biden's decision to leave -- even though the withdrawal actually began under his predecessor Donald Trump last year.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell urged Biden to delay the withdrawal after talks with the Afghan leaders.

"President Biden's decision to withdraw US forces leaves our Afghan partners alone to confront threats that his own top advisors acknowledge are&nbsp;grave&nbsp;and growing worse," McConnell said.

On Friday, Ghani and Abdullah will meet with Biden in the White House and, separately, with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon.

"One of the things that we will certainly be talking with President Ghani about tomorrow is what the enduring commitment of the United States to his government is going to look like," said Pentagon spokesman John Kirby.

Biden is expected to reaffirm billions of dollars in US aid for the country, and possibly make arrangements for US civilian contractors -- essential to keep the Afghan air force flying -- to remain there.

The United States will also provide three million doses of the Johnson &amp; Johnson coronavirus vaccine to Afghanistan to be shipped as soon as next week, according to Jean-Pierre.

Andrew Watkins, an Afghanistan expert at the International Crisis Group, said Ghani wants to show he has US support as the country's leader.

"Ghani doesn't have a lot of domestic legitimacy. His legitimacy comes maybe more than from any other source or any other factor from international recognition and support," Watkins said.

The US side, meanwhile, is likely to pressure Ghani and Abdullah to strike a power-sharing deal with the Taliban sooner rather than later.

"We believe that a negotiated political settlement is the best way to end the conflict," Jean-Pierre told journalists.&nbsp;

Possibly underscoring how uncomfortable the situation is for both sides, no press conference was planned.

Afghan leader Ashraf Ghani faces the cold reality of the end of US military presence in Afghanistan Friday when he meets with President Joe Biden in the White House.

Afghan leader Ashraf Ghani faces the cold reality of the end of US military presence in Afghanistan Friday when he meets with President Joe Biden in the White House. With his government under increasing threat from an emboldened Taliban insurgency, Ghani will be hoping for a significant commitment of US aid for his government, which will be without the on-the-ground support of US forces for the first time in nearly two decades. But any hopes for a delay in America's exit from its longest war are likely to be snuffed. Biden has ordered the departure of all US forces from Afghanistan by this year's 20th anniversary of the September 11 attacks that triggered the invasion, saying he believes that no more can be achieved. The final pullout, announced in April, has moved fast and some speculate the exit of some 2,500 US troops and 16,000 civilian contractors could be mostly completed in July. Also Read | Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976 "This visit is first about our ongoing commitment and support to the Afghan people and to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces," White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said Thursday. "The president will emphasize the need for unity, cohesion, and for the Afghan government to focus on key challenges Afghanistan faces." Deep uncertainty as Taliban gain Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, who is in charge of stalled negotiations with the Taliban on a power-sharing deal, arrived in Washington on Thursday as the rebels continued to gain ground in the country, both physically and propaganda-wise. The looming US exit has left the country in a deep state of uncertainty, with many worried about the return to power of extremists who applied a brutal version of Islam to the population when they ruled from 1996-2001. The Wall Street Journal reported that a new US intelligence report assesses that the Taliban could possibly capture Kabul within six months -- though other experts downplay that scenario, at least in the short-term. Still, the situation is being compared to the US withdrawal from Vietnam in 1973. Two years later, the South Vietnamese government that Washington had backed and then abandoned fell to North Vietnamese troops. Enduring commitment Still apparently hoping to slow the US pullout, Ghani and Abdullah met Thursday with members of Congress, many of whom criticize Biden's decision to leave -- even though the withdrawal actually began under his predecessor Donald Trump last year. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell urged Biden to delay the withdrawal after talks with the Afghan leaders. "President Biden's decision to withdraw US forces leaves our Afghan partners alone to confront threats that his own top advisors acknowledge are grave and growing worse," McConnell said. On Friday, Ghani and Abdullah will meet with Biden in the White House and, separately, with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon. "One of the things that we will certainly be talking with President Ghani about tomorrow is what the enduring commitment of the United States to his government is going to look like," said Pentagon spokesman John Kirby. Biden is expected to reaffirm billions of dollars in US aid for the country, and possibly make arrangements for US civilian contractors -- essential to keep the Afghan air force flying -- to remain there. The United States will also provide three million doses of the Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine to Afghanistan to be shipped as soon as next week, according to Jean-Pierre. Andrew Watkins, an Afghanistan expert at the International Crisis Group, said Ghani wants to show he has US support as the country's leader. "Ghani doesn't have a lot of domestic legitimacy. His legitimacy comes maybe more than from any other source or any other factor from international recognition and support," Watkins said. The US side, meanwhile, is likely to pressure Ghani and Abdullah to strike a power-sharing deal with the Taliban sooner rather than later. "We believe that a negotiated political settlement is the best way to end the conflict," Jean-Pierre told journalists. Possibly underscoring how uncomfortable the situation is for both sides, no press conference was planned.

Afghan leader Ashraf Ghani  to meet Joe Biden as US troop exit looms

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani met US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi ahead of meeting President Joe Biden. Biden’s first meeting as president with Ghani will focus on Washington’s support for Afghanistan after troops withdrawal.

Afghan President Ghani met US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani arrived in USA on Friday. He is accompanied by Abdullah Abdullah who leads the High Council for National Reconciliation. Ghani is slated to meet US President Joe Biden. The meet comes even as the US is in process of withdrawing all troops from Afghanistan. Ghani said that he respects the 'strategic decision' taken by the US and that it was a 'great pleasure' to be in the US

"It's a great pleasure to be here. The decision of President Biden has been a 'Strategic Decision'. We respect that decision. It's dealing with the new chapter of our friendship, our strategic relationship and our people-to-people relationship and government to government relationship that we are focused. Our discussions have been productive and we look very much forward to the culminating decision in meeting with the president today," said Ghani.

Violence in Afghanistan is on the rise ever since the announcement and commencement of US withdrawal. Taliban has been reported to be in control of dozens of districts.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-actions-inconsistent-with-establishing-peace-in-afghanistan-blinken-393956">Taliban's actions 'inconsistent' with establishing peace in Afghanistan: Blinken</a>

Taliban recently captured the border crossing between Afghanistan and Tajikistan. The northern city of Kunduz is expecting an encirclement and siege by the Taliban.

On Friday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that actions of Taliban were<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-actions-inconsistent-with-establishing-peace-in-afghanistan-blinken-393956"> 'inconsistent' with aim of establishing peace</a> in Afghanistan.

"We`re looking very carefully at the situation on the ground in Afghanistan and were also looking very hard whether the Taliban is at all serious about peaceful resolution of the conflict," Blinken told a news conference in Paris.

"Actions that try to take the country by force, of course, are totally inconsistent with finding a peaceful resolution," Blinken added.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani arrived in USA on Friday. He is accompanied by Abdullah Abdullah who leads the High Council for National Reconciliation. Ghani is slated to meet US President Joe Biden.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani arrived in USA on Friday. He is accompanied by Abdullah Abdullah who leads the High Council for National Reconciliation. Ghani is slated to meet US President Joe Biden. The meet comes even as the US is in process of withdrawing all troops from Afghanistan. Ghani said that he respects the 'strategic decision' taken by the US and that it was a 'great pleasure' to be in the US "It's a great pleasure to be here. The decision of President Biden has been a 'Strategic Decision'. We respect that decision. It's dealing with the new chapter of our friendship, our strategic relationship and our people-to-people relationship and government to government relationship that we are focused. Our discussions have been productive and we look very much forward to the culminating decision in meeting with the president today," said Ghani. Violence in Afghanistan is on the rise ever since the announcement and commencement of US withdrawal. Taliban has been reported to be in control of dozens of districts. Also Read | Taliban's actions 'inconsistent' with establishing peace in Afghanistan: Blinken Taliban recently captured the border crossing between Afghanistan and Tajikistan. The northern city of Kunduz is expecting an encirclement and siege by the Taliban. On Friday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that actions of Taliban were 'inconsistent' with aim of establishing peace in Afghanistan. "We`re looking very carefully at the situation on the ground in Afghanistan and were also looking very hard whether the Taliban is at all serious about peaceful resolution of the conflict," Blinken told a news conference in Paris. "Actions that try to take the country by force, of course, are totally inconsistent with finding a peaceful resolution," Blinken added.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani reaches US, to meet Biden soon 

US intelligence has said that the capital of Afghanistan, Kabul will fall to the resurgent Taliban group within six months of the departure of US and international troops, ahead of a White House meeting between President Joe Biden and top Afghan leaders Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah.

US Intel: Kabul could fall in 6 months after troops pullout | WION VOA Co-Production

Biden on Thursday said he planned to discuss with President Ghani and Abdullah, head of the reconciliation council, plans for airlifting the thousands of Afghans who supported Americans out of the country.

'To ensure no safe haven for terrorists': White House on Biden-Ghani meeting

Afghan forces and the Taliban have clashed repeatedly across the country as American and other foreign soldiers get set to fully leave by September 11 this year.

Biden set to meet Afghanistan President Ghani amid troop pullout

Joe Biden will be meeting Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani in Washington on Friday(25 June) amid an ongoing US military withdrawal and Taliban resurgence.

Afghan President to meet Joe Biden amid rise in Taliban attacks

The United States has said that it will not change its Afghanistan withdrawal timeline even as violence rises in the country. The announcement came two days before Afghan President Ashraf Ghani will hold talks with Joe Biden.

US: No change in troops withdrawal timeline from Afghanistan

The Pentagon said on Monday that it would complete its full withdrawal by September 11, but the pace of the pullout could be slowed given the Taliban's gains.

Fighting between Afghan forces and Taliban escalates

"The visit by President Ghani and Dr. Abdullah will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Afghanistan as the military drawdown continues," the White House said in a statement.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani to meet Joe Biden this week

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani will be visiting the United States to meet President Joe Biden this week, as uncertainty mounts over Afghanistan's future after the American military withdrawal.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani to visit US amid military drawdown

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani will meet US President Joe Biden on June 25, the White House said on Sunday. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation will also be present. The meeting comes at a time when fighting between the Taliban and Afghan security forces has surged.

Biden has already announced that all US troops in Afghanistan would be withdrawn before September 11 this year

"The visit by President Ghani and Dr. Abdullah will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Afghanistan as the military drawdown continues," the White House said in a statement.

The statement added that Washington was committed to supporting Afghan people by providing diplomatic, economic and humanitarian assistance.

"The United States will remain deeply engaged with the Government of Afghanistan to ensure the country never again becomes a safe haven for terrorist groups who pose a threat to the US homeland," it said.

However, the Taliban is taking steps to expand its influence across Afghanistan.

Since the United States announced plans in April to pull out all of troops, at least 30 districts have been seized by the Taliban.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani will meet US President Joe Biden on June 25, the White House said on Sunday. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation will also be present.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani will meet US President Joe Biden on June 25, the White House said on Sunday. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation will also be present. The meeting comes at a time when fighting between the Taliban and Afghan security forces has surged. Biden has already announced that all US troops in Afghanistan would be withdrawn before September 11 this year "The visit by President Ghani and Dr. Abdullah will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Afghanistan as the military drawdown continues," the White House said in a statement. The statement added that Washington was committed to supporting Afghan people by providing diplomatic, economic and humanitarian assistance. "The United States will remain deeply engaged with the Government of Afghanistan to ensure the country never again becomes a safe haven for terrorist groups who pose a threat to the US homeland," it said. However, the Taliban is taking steps to expand its influence across Afghanistan. Since the United States announced plans in April to pull out all of troops, at least 30 districts have been seized by the Taliban. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani to meet Joe Biden next week

India will help finance the new parliament building of Eswatini with the&nbsp;Export-Import Bank of India [Exim Bank]&nbsp;extending a line of credit of $108.28 million.&nbsp;

Eswatini is a landlocked country in Southern Africa and shares its borders with&nbsp;Mozambique and South Africa.&nbsp;The country was earlier known by the name Swaziland.

The line of credit&nbsp;agreement for this was signed between the&nbsp;General&nbsp;Manager of Exim Bank&nbsp;Nirmit Ved and the Finance minister of&nbsp;&nbsp;Eswatini,&nbsp;Neal H Rijkenberg.

The total number of LOC extended by EXIM bank to the Africa's smallest country now stands at 4, with a total value of $ 176.58 million.&nbsp;These MOUs are used in building of&nbsp;Information technology park and Agricultural Development.

India is also involved in financing of new Parliament in Burundi's national capital Gitega and 2 Ministerial buildings in Bujumbura, country's largest city and main port. In the past,&nbsp;India was involved in the construction of the Parliament building of Afghanistan as well. The building was inaugurated in 2015 by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and PM Narendra Modi.

A total of 211 Line of Credits (LoCs) amounting to&nbsp;$12.85 billion have been extended to the African countries in various infrastructure projects by New Delhi. Specifically regarding EXIM bank, it has extended 272&nbsp;Lines of Credit, covering&nbsp;62 countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the CIS with credit commitments of around $&nbsp;26.84 billion.

India will help finance the new parliament building of Eswatini with the Export-Import Bank of India [Exim Bank] extending a line of credit of $108.28 million. Eswatini is a landlocked country in Southern Africa and shares its borders with Mozambique and South Africa.

India will help finance the new parliament building of Eswatini with the Export-Import Bank of India [Exim Bank] extending a line of credit of $108.28 million. Eswatini is a landlocked country in Southern Africa and shares its borders with Mozambique and South Africa. The country was earlier known by the name Swaziland. The line of credit agreement for this was signed between the General Manager of Exim Bank Nirmit Ved and the Finance minister of Eswatini, Neal H Rijkenberg. The total number of LOC extended by EXIM bank to the Africa's smallest country now stands at 4, with a total value of $ 176.58 million. These MOUs are used in building of Information technology park and Agricultural Development. India is also involved in financing of new Parliament in Burundi's national capital Gitega and 2 Ministerial buildings in Bujumbura, country's largest city and main port. In the past, India was involved in the construction of the Parliament building of Afghanistan as well. The building was inaugurated in 2015 by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and PM Narendra Modi. A total of 211 Line of Credits (LoCs) amounting to $12.85 billion have been extended to the African countries in various infrastructure projects by New Delhi. Specifically regarding EXIM bank, it has extended 272 Lines of Credit, covering 62 countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the CIS with credit commitments of around $ 26.84 billion.

India to help finance new parliament building of Eswatini

Ahead of the meeting in Turkey on the Afghan peace process later this month, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has briefed envoys all Kabul-based ambassadors, including Indian envoy to the country Rudrendra Tandon, on his three-stage peace process.

The Turkey meet will see the fresh impetus for the Afghan peace process, under the UN umbrella as proposed by the new Biden administration in the US.

Afghan government sources told WION that the president "has presented his peace plan literally to all international partners and sides".

According to Afghan media reports, President Ghani's proposal includes "preservation of constitution", a transitional government, and holding of presidential elections. The proposal is expected to be formally unveiled at the Turkey meet.

The US has also proposed a regional framework for talks with the involvement of six countries--Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, India, and the US-- under the United Nations for a "unified approach to supporting peace in Afghanistan".

Last week, at the Heart of Asia meet in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had called for a "genuine ‘double peace’" in Afghanistan, which is "peace within Afghanistan and peace around Afghanistan" that&nbsp;"requires harmonising the interests of all, both within and around that country."

Last year, India&nbsp;attended both the US-Taliban pact signing and the start of the intra-Afghan talks in Doha.

On the Afghan peace process, India has been engaging with the Afghan government and other stakeholders.

March saw the visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar to India, while last year saw high-level visits by senior Afghan leaders Dr Abdullah Abdullah, Ata Noor and Abdul Rashid Dostum. Earlier this year, India's National Security Adviser&nbsp;Ajit Doval was in Kabul, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi and the Afghan President also held a virtual meet for the inauguration for work on Shahtoot dam that will provide clean drinking water to people of the national capital Kabul.

Ahead of the meeting in Turkey on the Afghan peace process later this month, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has briefed envoys all Kabul-based ambassadors, including Indian envoy to the country Rudrendra Tandon, on his three-stage peace process.

Ahead of the meeting in Turkey on the Afghan peace process later this month, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has briefed envoys all Kabul-based ambassadors, including Indian envoy to the country Rudrendra Tandon, on his three-stage peace process. The Turkey meet will see the fresh impetus for the Afghan peace process, under the UN umbrella as proposed by the new Biden administration in the US. Afghan government sources told WION that the president "has presented his peace plan literally to all international partners and sides". According to Afghan media reports, President Ghani's proposal includes "preservation of constitution", a transitional government, and holding of presidential elections. The proposal is expected to be formally unveiled at the Turkey meet. The US has also proposed a regional framework for talks with the involvement of six countries--Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, India, and the US-- under the United Nations for a "unified approach to supporting peace in Afghanistan". Last week, at the Heart of Asia meet in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had called for a "genuine ‘double peace’" in Afghanistan, which is "peace within Afghanistan and peace around Afghanistan" that "requires harmonising the interests of all, both within and around that country." Last year, India attended both the US-Taliban pact signing and the start of the intra-Afghan talks in Doha. On the Afghan peace process, India has been engaging with the Afghan government and other stakeholders. March saw the visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar to India, while last year saw high-level visits by senior Afghan leaders Dr Abdullah Abdullah, Ata Noor and Abdul Rashid Dostum. Earlier this year, India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval was in Kabul, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Afghan President also held a virtual meet for the inauguration for work on Shahtoot dam that will provide clean drinking water to people of the national capital Kabul.

Ahead of Turkey meet, Afghan President Ghani briefs Indian, other envoys on his peace plan

President Ashraf Ghani said that peace in Afghanistan means peace in the entire region. He also said that the ongoing violence in the country is against the will of the people.

Will 'Heart of Asia' summit turn the tables in Afghan peace process?

Heart of Asia Summit: Prez Ghani says peace in Afghanistan means peace in region

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