Afghan officials met Taliban members in Qatar on Friday to discuss a prisoner swap plan ahead of the US and Taliban deal that will set the timeline for the withdrawal of American troops who have been fighting in Afghanistan for 18 years.

The meeting in Doha was part of a crucial confidence-building mechanism between the warring sides, two senior government officials in Kabul said.

The Taliban wants the release of over 5,000 detainees before launching direct negotiations with the Afghan side for a permanent ceasefire, a stumbling block in efforts to end the war.

A senior Taliban leader in Doha said both sides were working on "different angles to overcome the difference on prisoner swap".

The Afghan delegation has no authority to agree on a prisoner swap. It will consult and report back to the president, another official said

Shepherding the Afghan government and Taliban towards intra-Afghan negotiations has been one of the biggest headaches for US negotiators, according to western diplomats.

A senior official in Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's office said Ghani was reluctant to send a delegation to discuss the prisoner swap with the Taliban before the US-Taliban deal is formalised as Afghanistan is not a signatory to that bilateral agreement.

"But he now realises that a meeting is crucial at this juncture. This golden opportunity cannot be lost," said the official, requesting anonymity.

The seven-day "Reduction in Violence" (RIV) pact that took effect on Feb. 22 and is set to culminate in the signing of an agreement between top US&nbsp;and Taliban negotiators on Saturday in Doha, the Taliban's political headquarters.

The RIV period has passed off largely successfully, and the United States and Taliban look set to sign the agreement to establish a timetable for the withdrawal of American troops in exchange for guarantees from the Taliban not to allow militant groups such as al-Qaeda to operate in Afghanistan.

Sediq Seddiqi, a spokesman for the President Ashraf Ghani said RIV has been an important step towards an enduring ceasefire as the number of attacks have been low by the Taliban.

"Our monitoring groups will provide us with their assessment of the week. We hope that RIV continues after signing of US, Taliban agreement, leading to a ceasefire."

The Taliban now hold sway over half the country, and are at their most powerful since the US invasion in 2001.

The US-Taliban agreement, if inked on Saturday, would begin a phased withdrawal of American and coalition forces and would also require the Taliban to initiate a formal dialogue with the Afghan government and other political and civil society groups on a permanent nationwide ceasefire and power-sharing in post-war Afghanistan.

Taliban commanders said once the deal is signed the group will release 1,000 Afghan prisoners. In exchange, the Taliban expects the Afghan government to release their 5,000 fighters.

Afghan officials met Taliban members in Qatar on Friday to discuss a prisoner swap plan ahead of the US and Taliban deal that will set the timeline for the withdrawal of American troops who have been fighting in Afghanistan for 18 years.

Afghan officials met Taliban members in Qatar on Friday to discuss a prisoner swap plan ahead of the US and Taliban deal that will set the timeline for the withdrawal of American troops who have been fighting in Afghanistan for 18 years. The meeting in Doha was part of a crucial confidence-building mechanism between the warring sides, two senior government officials in Kabul said. The Taliban wants the release of over 5,000 detainees before launching direct negotiations with the Afghan side for a permanent ceasefire, a stumbling block in efforts to end the war. A senior Taliban leader in Doha said both sides were working on "different angles to overcome the difference on prisoner swap". The Afghan delegation has no authority to agree on a prisoner swap. It will consult and report back to the president, another official said Shepherding the Afghan government and Taliban towards intra-Afghan negotiations has been one of the biggest headaches for US negotiators, according to western diplomats. A senior official in Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's office said Ghani was reluctant to send a delegation to discuss the prisoner swap with the Taliban before the US-Taliban deal is formalised as Afghanistan is not a signatory to that bilateral agreement. "But he now realises that a meeting is crucial at this juncture. This golden opportunity cannot be lost," said the official, requesting anonymity. The seven-day "Reduction in Violence" (RIV) pact that took effect on Feb. 22 and is set to culminate in the signing of an agreement between top US and Taliban negotiators on Saturday in Doha, the Taliban's political headquarters. The RIV period has passed off largely successfully, and the United States and Taliban look set to sign the agreement to establish a timetable for the withdrawal of American troops in exchange for guarantees from the Taliban not to allow militant groups such as al-Qaeda to operate in Afghanistan. Sediq Seddiqi, a spokesman for the President Ashraf Ghani said RIV has been an important step towards an enduring ceasefire as the number of attacks have been low by the Taliban. "Our monitoring groups will provide us with their assessment of the week. We hope that RIV continues after signing of US, Taliban agreement, leading to a ceasefire." The Taliban now hold sway over half the country, and are at their most powerful since the US invasion in 2001. The US-Taliban agreement, if inked on Saturday, would begin a phased withdrawal of American and coalition forces and would also require the Taliban to initiate a formal dialogue with the Afghan government and other political and civil society groups on a permanent nationwide ceasefire and power-sharing in post-war Afghanistan. Taliban commanders said once the deal is signed the group will release 1,000 Afghan prisoners. In exchange, the Taliban expects the Afghan government to release their 5,000 fighters.

Afghan officials discuss prisoner swap with Taliban ahead of US troop withdrawal agreement

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has postponed his inauguration on US request. This after Washington raised concerns that the controversy over his re-election might hamper the signing of a peace deal with the Taliban, later this week.

Afghan President delays his inauguration on US request

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Wednesday discussed a US deal with Taliban militants on a weeklong reduction in violence, meeting the day after Ghani was declared a winner of a disputed presidential poll.

Ghani's main rival, Abdullah Abdullah, who came in second, rejected the result and vowed to form his own government, threatening new political turmoil as the United States strives to seal a US troop withdrawal deal with Taliban militants.

The Afghan presidential palace in a statement quoted President Ghani as telling Khalilzad he had held "effective" meetings with local leaders on how the Afghan government would handle the peace process.

The US-Taliban deal was struck in protracted negotiations in the Qatari capital Doha and was announced on Friday after a meeting between US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Ghani and US Defense Secretary Mark Esper in Munich.

Khalilzad, who has led talks with the Taliban on a US troop withdrawal agreement, briefed Ghani on the steps that will be taken after the reduction in violence agreement comes into force, the presidential palace statement said.

Afghanistan's acting interior minister had said on Tuesday that the accord would come into force in the next five days, even as clashes between the Taliban and Afghan security forces continued.

The statement following the Khalilzad-Ghani meeting did not mention the Afghan president's re-election, which is being disputed by a number of Ghani's political opponents. The United States has not yet formally congratulated Ghani on his re-election for five more years as president.

The United Nations on Wednesday said it would “encourage the electoral management bodies to address the candidates’ understandable desire to have clarity on decisions taken related to audits and recounts.”

The European Union said it said it considered the election process to have reached a conclusion.

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Wednesday discussed a US deal with Taliban militants on a weeklong reduction in violence, meeting the day after Ghani was declared a winner of a disputed presidential poll.

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Wednesday discussed a US deal with Taliban militants on a weeklong reduction in violence, meeting the day after Ghani was declared a winner of a disputed presidential poll. Ghani's main rival, Abdullah Abdullah, who came in second, rejected the result and vowed to form his own government, threatening new political turmoil as the United States strives to seal a US troop withdrawal deal with Taliban militants. The Afghan presidential palace in a statement quoted President Ghani as telling Khalilzad he had held "effective" meetings with local leaders on how the Afghan government would handle the peace process. The US-Taliban deal was struck in protracted negotiations in the Qatari capital Doha and was announced on Friday after a meeting between US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Ghani and US Defense Secretary Mark Esper in Munich. Khalilzad, who has led talks with the Taliban on a US troop withdrawal agreement, briefed Ghani on the steps that will be taken after the reduction in violence agreement comes into force, the presidential palace statement said. Afghanistan's acting interior minister had said on Tuesday that the accord would come into force in the next five days, even as clashes between the Taliban and Afghan security forces continued. The statement following the Khalilzad-Ghani meeting did not mention the Afghan president's re-election, which is being disputed by a number of Ghani's political opponents. The United States has not yet formally congratulated Ghani on his re-election for five more years as president. The United Nations on Wednesday said it would “encourage the electoral management bodies to address the candidates’ understandable desire to have clarity on decisions taken related to audits and recounts.” The European Union said it said it considered the election process to have reached a conclusion.

US special envoy discusses Taliban deal with re-elected Afghan president

Ashraf Ghani has secured a second term as president of Afghanistan. According to Election Commission Ashraf Ghani, who has won 50.64 percent of the votes, as the president of Afghanistan.

Afghan Presidential Poll:Results announced after 5 month delay

Ashraf Ghani secured the second term as Afghan president, final results showed&nbsp;on Tuesday.

"The election commission... declares Mr Ashraf Ghani, who has won 50.64 per cent of the votes, as the president of Afghanistan," election commission chief Hawa Alam Nuristani said in a press conference in Kabul.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-calls-afghan-presidential-election-important-milestone-252700">Also read: India calls Afghan presidential election 'important milestone'</a>

The results had been delayed for nearly five months after allegations of vote-rigging from Ghani's main rival, Abdullah Abdullah, forced a recount.

Millions of people in Afghanistan braved persistent threats from the Taliban and cast their votes in September. The elections were fourth since the Taliban were ousted in a US-led invasion in 2001.

However, the elections were marred by low voter turnout, logistical issues,&nbsp;fraud allegations, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-presidential-candidates-fear-for-safety-after-attack-239294">calls for boycott and attacks by the Taliban</a>.

According to the Afghan government, 72,000 security personnel were deployed with 9.6 million people registered to vote during the polls.

The election result comes at a critical time for Afghanistan as the United States is showing more interest in negotiating a peace settlement with the Taliban to end a war that has dragged on for more than 18 years.

Eighty-five civilians were killed and more than 370 wounded in militant attacks and violence on the day of the election, the United Nations had said in November, and the country plunged into chaos with both Ghani’s and Abdullah’s camps claiming victory before ballots had been tallied.

The U.N. report accused the Taliban of deliberate attacks against civilians on election day.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Ashraf Ghani secured the second term as Afghan president, final results showed on Tuesday. "The election commission... declares Mr Ashraf Ghani, who has won 50.64 per cent of the votes, as the president of Afghanistan," election commission chief Hawa Alam Nuristani said in a press conference in Kabul.

Ashraf Ghani secured the second term as Afghan president, final results showed on Tuesday. "The election commission... declares Mr Ashraf Ghani, who has won 50.64 per cent of the votes, as the president of Afghanistan," election commission chief Hawa Alam Nuristani said in a press conference in Kabul. Also read: India calls Afghan presidential election 'important milestone' The results had been delayed for nearly five months after allegations of vote-rigging from Ghani's main rival, Abdullah Abdullah, forced a recount. Millions of people in Afghanistan braved persistent threats from the Taliban and cast their votes in September. The elections were fourth since the Taliban were ousted in a US-led invasion in 2001. However, the elections were marred by low voter turnout, logistical issues, fraud allegations, calls for boycott and attacks by the Taliban. According to the Afghan government, 72,000 security personnel were deployed with 9.6 million people registered to vote during the polls. The election result comes at a critical time for Afghanistan as the United States is showing more interest in negotiating a peace settlement with the Taliban to end a war that has dragged on for more than 18 years. Eighty-five civilians were killed and more than 370 wounded in militant attacks and violence on the day of the election, the United Nations had said in November, and the country plunged into chaos with both Ghani’s and Abdullah’s camps claiming victory before ballots had been tallied. The U.N. report accused the Taliban of deliberate attacks against civilians on election day. (With inputs from agencies)

Ashraf Ghani wins presidential polls, will continue as Afghan President: Final results

Amid the crucial Financial Action Task Force (FATF) meet on terror financing in Paris, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has accused Pakistan of its failure to take concrete steps against terrorism.

While meeting Nancy Pelosi, the Speaker and a number of other members of the US House of Representatives on the sideline of the 56th Munich Security Conference, President Ghani said, "We haven`t seen any notable developments and concrete anti-terrorism step taken by Pakistan."

He said the Taliban's sanctuaries remain a dilemma that must be addressed.

Ghani stressed that the Taliban are still engaged in drug trafficking while discussing the issue with the US Congressional delegation.

They discussed a range of issues pertaining to security, peace process and President Ghani`s prospect on it, Afghanistan's fight against narcotics and terrorist groups, where terrorism was termed as a common threat to the region as well as Afghanistan`s allies.

President Ghani elucidated the Afghan government's vision and commitment for sustainable and inclusive peace, with an emphasis on protecting the hard-earned gains of the past two decades.

The President provided information on the Afghan government`s economic plans and answered questions raised by the US Senators on the reduction of American troops in Afghanistan and its impacts as well as aftermaths in the region and Afghanistan.

He said the Afghan defence and security forces are leading 94 per cent of the operations and the forces are capable enough to defend their people and homeland.

Having talked over the peace process, the president said the potential threats and opportunities must be precisely evaluated, adding that the government of Afghanistan has the determination, wisdom and capability to analyse the opportunities appropriately in order to bring sustainable peace to the country.

The participants also discussed ensuring the interests of Afghanistan and the United States.

"We are still confronting a medium to long-term common threats that require joint commitment to tackle them," Ghani said.&nbsp;

Amid the crucial Financial Action Task Force (FATF) meet on terror financing in Paris, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has accused Pakistan of its failure to take concrete steps against terrorism.

Amid the crucial Financial Action Task Force (FATF) meet on terror financing in Paris, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has accused Pakistan of its failure to take concrete steps against terrorism. While meeting Nancy Pelosi, the Speaker and a number of other members of the US House of Representatives on the sideline of the 56th Munich Security Conference, President Ghani said, "We haven`t seen any notable developments and concrete anti-terrorism step taken by Pakistan." He said the Taliban's sanctuaries remain a dilemma that must be addressed. Ghani stressed that the Taliban are still engaged in drug trafficking while discussing the issue with the US Congressional delegation. They discussed a range of issues pertaining to security, peace process and President Ghani`s prospect on it, Afghanistan's fight against narcotics and terrorist groups, where terrorism was termed as a common threat to the region as well as Afghanistan`s allies. President Ghani elucidated the Afghan government's vision and commitment for sustainable and inclusive peace, with an emphasis on protecting the hard-earned gains of the past two decades. The President provided information on the Afghan government`s economic plans and answered questions raised by the US Senators on the reduction of American troops in Afghanistan and its impacts as well as aftermaths in the region and Afghanistan. He said the Afghan defence and security forces are leading 94 per cent of the operations and the forces are capable enough to defend their people and homeland. Having talked over the peace process, the president said the potential threats and opportunities must be precisely evaluated, adding that the government of Afghanistan has the determination, wisdom and capability to analyse the opportunities appropriately in order to bring sustainable peace to the country. The participants also discussed ensuring the interests of Afghanistan and the United States. "We are still confronting a medium to long-term common threats that require joint commitment to tackle them," Ghani said.

Pakistan not taking any concrete step against terrorism, says Afghan President Ghani

&nbsp;A suicide bomber killed six people near a military academy in the Afghan capital, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Kabul</a>, on Tuesday, the interior ministry said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-violence-rises-amid-us-taliban-talks-watchdog-277677">Taliban </a>denied involvement in the blast and there was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

The bombing took place near the government-run defence university, the Marshal Fahim Military Academy, at the beginning of the morning rush hour.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress</a>

It was the first major attack in the capital this year and comes at a time of heightened uncertainty in the country as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">US&nbsp;</a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Taliban </a>negotiators in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Qatar </a>try to pursue talks towards a peace deal to end 18 years of war.

"Six people including two civilians and four military personnel were killed," interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told Reuters, adding that 12 people were wounded, five of them civilians.

"It wasn't our work," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-violence-rises-amid-us-taliban-talks-watchdog-277677">Taliban </a>spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid in a text message to Reuters.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-violence-rises-amid-us-taliban-talks-watchdog-277677">Afghanistan violence rises amid US-Taliban talks</a>

The academy, modelled after European war colleges to train Afghan cadets, has been the scene of several attacks in the past, including an assault last may claimed by Islamic State.

Despite the relative lull of violence in Kabul, militant attacks on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Afghan </a>and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">US</a>-led security forces have continued over recent months around the country even as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">United States</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Taliban </a>militants pursue talks to finalise a peace pact.

Afghan President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Ashraf Ghani</a> condemned the attack in a statement released by his office.

"The great nation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-violence-rises-amid-us-taliban-talks-watchdog-277677">Afghanistan </a>wants an end to violence, an end to the war, a ceasefire and an enduring peace," he said.

"The government is committed to achieving a dignified and sustainable peace, for which it pursues a clear plan."

A suicide bomber killed six people near a military academy in the Afghan capital, Kabul, on Tuesday, the interior ministry said. The Taliban denied involvement in the blast and there was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

A suicide bomber killed six people near a military academy in the Afghan capital, Kabul, on Tuesday, the interior ministry said. The Taliban denied involvement in the blast and there was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack. The bombing took place near the government-run defence university, the Marshal Fahim Military Academy, at the beginning of the morning rush hour. Also read: US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress It was the first major attack in the capital this year and comes at a time of heightened uncertainty in the country as US and Taliban negotiators in Qatar try to pursue talks towards a peace deal to end 18 years of war. "Six people including two civilians and four military personnel were killed," interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi told Reuters, adding that 12 people were wounded, five of them civilians. "It wasn't our work," said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid in a text message to Reuters. Also read: Afghanistan violence rises amid US-Taliban talks The academy, modelled after European war colleges to train Afghan cadets, has been the scene of several attacks in the past, including an assault last may claimed by Islamic State. Despite the relative lull of violence in Kabul, militant attacks on the Afghan and US-led security forces have continued over recent months around the country even as the United States and Taliban militants pursue talks to finalise a peace pact. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attack in a statement released by his office. "The great nation of Afghanistan wants an end to violence, an end to the war, a ceasefire and an enduring peace," he said. "The government is committed to achieving a dignified and sustainable peace, for which it pursues a clear plan."

Six killed in suicide blast in Kabul, Taliban deny attack

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">US </a>and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Taliban </a>appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">American </a>troop withdrawal from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Afghanistan</a>, after Afghan President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Ashraf Ghani</a> reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days.

Washington and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Taliban&nbsp;</a>have been locked in gruelling talks that have stretched over more than a year for an agreement that would see the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">US </a>pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in a bid to end America's longest war.

In return, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Taliban </a>would provide various security guarantees and launch eventual talks with the Kabul government.

Watch: US-Taliban talks appear closer to pact after marathon negotiations in Qatar

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ghani said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had called him to inform him of developments in the talks, which are taking place in Doha.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Today, I was pleased to receive a call from <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a>, informing me of the notable progress made in the ongoing peace talks with the Taliban. The Secretary informed me about the Taliban’s proposal with regards to bringing a significant and enduring reduction in violence.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1227284075075002369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A Taliban source in Pakistan told AFP that negotiators would meet again Wednesday in Doha, while in Afghanistan another senior Taliban official suggested the group was poised to reduce attacks.

"If the deal is signed, the Taliban will start a reduction of violence on Friday," the official in Afghanistan said, adding that the insurgents were working to bring any Taliban splinter groups into line.

Citing Afghan and US officials, the New York Times reported that US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Donald Trump</a> had given conditional approval to a deal with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Taliban</a>.

The two foes have been on the brink of a breakthrough before, with a deal all but complete in September before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-taliban-talks-appear-closer-to-pact-after-marathon-negotiations-in-qatar-193289">Trump </a>nixed it at the last moment amid continued Taliban violence.

The US and the Taliban appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days.

The US and the Taliban appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days. Washington and the Taliban have been locked in gruelling talks that have stretched over more than a year for an agreement that would see the US pull thousands of troops from Afghanistan in a bid to end America's longest war. In return, the Taliban would provide various security guarantees and launch eventual talks with the Kabul government. Watch: US-Taliban talks appear closer to pact after marathon negotiations in Qatar Ghani said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had called him to inform him of developments in the talks, which are taking place in Doha. Today, I was pleased to receive a call from @SecPompeo, informing me of the notable progress made in the ongoing peace talks with the Taliban. The Secretary informed me about the Taliban’s proposal with regards to bringing a significant and enduring reduction in violence. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) February 11, 2020 × A Taliban source in Pakistan told AFP that negotiators would meet again Wednesday in Doha, while in Afghanistan another senior Taliban official suggested the group was poised to reduce attacks. "If the deal is signed, the Taliban will start a reduction of violence on Friday," the official in Afghanistan said, adding that the insurgents were working to bring any Taliban splinter groups into line. Citing Afghan and US officials, the New York Times reported that US President Donald Trump had given conditional approval to a deal with the Taliban. The two foes have been on the brink of a breakthrough before, with a deal all but complete in September before Trump nixed it at the last moment amid continued Taliban violence.

US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress

Pakistan on Monday expressed concern over what it described as "interference" by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in the country's "internal affairs" with respect to the arrest of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-frees-two-pashtun-lawmakers-after-months-of-detention-251043">Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement</a> (PTM) leader Manzoor Pashteen and his colleagues.

In a tweet on Monday, Ghani had said that he was "troubled" by the arrest of Pashteen and his colleagues and hoped for their immediate release, adding, "While our region is suffering from atrocities caused by violent extremism and terrorism, governments in the region must support and encourage peaceful civilian movements for justice and must avoid any means of force and violence against these movements."

Islamabad responded followingly, describing the statement as unwarranted, a clear interference in Pakistan's internal affairs, and "not helpful to the promotion of good neighbourly relations between the two countries."

"We have noted with serious concern the recent tweets by President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghan-president-elect-ashraf-ghani-accepts-pm-modis-invitation-to-visit-india-270030">Ashraf Ghani</a>, which are a clear interference in Pakistan's internal affairs and hence, unwarranted," read a statement by Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson. "We believe that such statements are not helpful to the promotion of good neighbourly relations between the two countries."

"Pakistan wishes to maintain close and cordial relations with Afghanistan based on the principles of non-intervention and non-interference and urges the Afghan side to work together for the common objective of peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region," it added.

Pashteen was arrested from Shaheen town in Peshawar in the early hours of Monday.

PTM is known for its strident criticism of the country's powerful military for alleged enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, according to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-authorities-shut-down-al-jazeera-office-as-protests-continue-223119">Al Jazeera</a>.

Along with Pashteen, the police also arrested nine other PTM workers who were identified as Muhammad Salam, Abdul Hameed, Idrees, Bilal, Mohib, Sajjadul Hassan, Aimal, Farooq, and Muhammad Salman.

Pakistan on Monday expressed concern over what it described as "interference" by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in the country's "internal affairs" with respect to the arrest of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) leader Manzoor Pashteen and his colleagues.

Pakistan on Monday expressed concern over what it described as "interference" by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in the country's "internal affairs" with respect to the arrest of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) leader Manzoor Pashteen and his colleagues. In a tweet on Monday, Ghani had said that he was "troubled" by the arrest of Pashteen and his colleagues and hoped for their immediate release, adding, "While our region is suffering from atrocities caused by violent extremism and terrorism, governments in the region must support and encourage peaceful civilian movements for justice and must avoid any means of force and violence against these movements." Islamabad responded followingly, describing the statement as unwarranted, a clear interference in Pakistan's internal affairs, and "not helpful to the promotion of good neighbourly relations between the two countries." "We have noted with serious concern the recent tweets by President Ashraf Ghani, which are a clear interference in Pakistan's internal affairs and hence, unwarranted," read a statement by Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson. "We believe that such statements are not helpful to the promotion of good neighbourly relations between the two countries." "Pakistan wishes to maintain close and cordial relations with Afghanistan based on the principles of non-intervention and non-interference and urges the Afghan side to work together for the common objective of peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region," it added. Pashteen was arrested from Shaheen town in Peshawar in the early hours of Monday. PTM is known for its strident criticism of the country's powerful military for alleged enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, according to Al Jazeera. Along with Pashteen, the police also arrested nine other PTM workers who were identified as Muhammad Salam, Abdul Hameed, Idrees, Bilal, Mohib, Sajjadul Hassan, Aimal, Farooq, and Muhammad Salman.

Pak cautions Ghani against 'interfering in internal matters' after Pashteen's arrest

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trump-to-visit-pakistan-soon-says-foreign-minister-shah-mahmood-qureshi-275970">Donald Trump</a> told Afghan counterpart, Ashraf Ghani, on Wednesday said he wants to see a "significant" drop in violence by Taliban guerrillas before "meaningful" negotiations can happen.

At the meeting of the two presidents in Davos, Switzerland, "President Trump reiterated the need for a significant and lasting reduction in violence by the Taliban that would facilitate meaningful negotiations on Afghanistan’s future", the White House said.

Washington has for weeks been calling for the violence to be reined in, posing it as a condition for resuming formal negotiations on an agreement that would see US troops begin to leave Afghanistan in return for security guarantees, after a near two-decade fight.

Insurgent sources told AFP last week they had offered to initiate a brief ceasefire of seven to 18 days, but there was no announcement of the proposal by either party.

The Taliban are aiming to reach a withdrawal agreement with the US by the end of January and are prepared to "scale down" military operations ahead of signing a deal, their chief spokesman said this week.

The two sides had been negotiating the deal for a year and were on the brink of an announcement in September 2019 when Trump abruptly declared the process "dead", citing Taliban violence.

Talks were later restarted in December in Qatar but paused again following an attack near the Usw-run Bagram military base in Afghanistan.

Any agreement with the Taliban is expected to have two pillars -- a US withdrawal from Afghanistan and a commitment by the insurgents not to offer sanctuary to jihadists. It would ultimately have to win final approval from Trump.

US President Donald Trump told Afghan counterpart, Ashraf Ghani, on Wednesday said he wants to see a "significant" drop in violence by Taliban guerrillas before "meaningful" negotiations can happen.

US President Donald Trump told Afghan counterpart, Ashraf Ghani, on Wednesday said he wants to see a "significant" drop in violence by Taliban guerrillas before "meaningful" negotiations can happen. At the meeting of the two presidents in Davos, Switzerland, "President Trump reiterated the need for a significant and lasting reduction in violence by the Taliban that would facilitate meaningful negotiations on Afghanistan’s future", the White House said. Washington has for weeks been calling for the violence to be reined in, posing it as a condition for resuming formal negotiations on an agreement that would see US troops begin to leave Afghanistan in return for security guarantees, after a near two-decade fight. Insurgent sources told AFP last week they had offered to initiate a brief ceasefire of seven to 18 days, but there was no announcement of the proposal by either party. The Taliban are aiming to reach a withdrawal agreement with the US by the end of January and are prepared to "scale down" military operations ahead of signing a deal, their chief spokesman said this week. The two sides had been negotiating the deal for a year and were on the brink of an announcement in September 2019 when Trump abruptly declared the process "dead", citing Taliban violence. Talks were later restarted in December in Qatar but paused again following an attack near the Usw-run Bagram military base in Afghanistan. Any agreement with the Taliban is expected to have two pillars -- a US withdrawal from Afghanistan and a commitment by the insurgents not to offer sanctuary to jihadists. It would ultimately have to win final approval from Trump.

Trump wants 'significant' drop in Taliban violence for Afghan talks

Calling India a "key partner" of Afghanistan, the country's NSA Hamdullah Mohib on Wednesday said that opening of air freight corridor has "increased" trade between New Delhi and Kabul.

"With India, we have increased trade significantly, by opening the air trade corridor. India has been a key partner, able to recognise and share our vision for a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan," said Mohib during an event in Delhi.

India and Afghanistan established first air freight corridor connecting Kabul to New Delhi in June 2017, with an aim to improve landlocked Afghanistan's connectivity to key markets abroad and boost the growth prospects of its dry fruits and carpet industries.

The decision to open the air corridor was taken during the 2016 visit of Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani.

While talking about the condition in Afghanistan, Mohib asserted that a ceasefire is the only solution to bring peace in the war-torn nation, adding that the Afghan government looks 2020 with hope.

"In the midst of conflict, we continue to think positively and creatively. We continue to passionately and practically pursue peace. We continue to strengthen our democracy. We look to this year with hope," Mohib said.

"A ceasefire is necessary to create a conducive environment for talks. Violence and terrorism have no constituencies in Afghanistan," he added.&nbsp;

Calling India a "key partner" of Afghanistan, the country's NSA Hamdullah Mohib on Wednesday said that opening of air freight corridor has "increased" trade between New Delhi and Kabul.

Calling India a "key partner" of Afghanistan, the country's NSA Hamdullah Mohib on Wednesday said that opening of air freight corridor has "increased" trade between New Delhi and Kabul. "With India, we have increased trade significantly, by opening the air trade corridor. India has been a key partner, able to recognise and share our vision for a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan," said Mohib during an event in Delhi. India and Afghanistan established first air freight corridor connecting Kabul to New Delhi in June 2017, with an aim to improve landlocked Afghanistan's connectivity to key markets abroad and boost the growth prospects of its dry fruits and carpet industries. The decision to open the air corridor was taken during the 2016 visit of Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani. While talking about the condition in Afghanistan, Mohib asserted that a ceasefire is the only solution to bring peace in the war-torn nation, adding that the Afghan government looks 2020 with hope. "In the midst of conflict, we continue to think positively and creatively. We continue to passionately and practically pursue peace. We continue to strengthen our democracy. We look to this year with hope," Mohib said. "A ceasefire is necessary to create a conducive environment for talks. Violence and terrorism have no constituencies in Afghanistan," he added.

India a key partner, shares Kabul vision of peaceful Afghanistan: NSA Hamdullah Mohib

US Defense Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-meets-mark-esper-on-the-sidelines-of-admm-plus-meeting-in-bangkok-262660">Mark Esper</a> on Tuesday (local times) said that Afghan President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-vows-to-eliminate-islamic-state-says-will-take-revenge-for-our-people-244235">Ashraf Ghani</a> and Pakistani Army Chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-qamar-javed-bajwas-term-as-army-chief-extended-for-another-3-years-244163">Qamar Javed Bajwa</a> offered him sound advice during a phone call on the escalation of tensions in the middle eastern region.

"The United States does not seek conflict but will respond forcefully if necessary. Afghan President and Pakistani General Bajwa both offered sound counsel and advice in calls today," Esper tweeted.

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The United States does not seek conflict, but will respond forcefully if necessary. Afghan President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashrafghani</a> and Pakistani General Bajwa both offered sound counsel and advice in calls today.
— Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper (@EsperDoD) <a href="https://twitter.com/EsperDoD/status/1214643648475881480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Trump administration has dialled up various leaders in the world to defend United States` fatal strike that claimed the life of Iranian Quds Force chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-iranians-general-qasem-soleimani-and-its-consequences-271884">Qasem Soleimani</a>. The attack has further downgraded US relations with Tehran.

Iran has vowed to take revenge for the killing of the most revered military personnel in Iran. The strike has been deployed by several countries including Iraq, Russia, and China."I always appreciate speaking with our partners and allies in the region. We all seek the de-escalation of tensions with Iran," he added.

Meanwhile, Ghani took to Twitter to inform about the phone call between Esper and him, adding that he and Esper agreed that its time for an urgent de-escalation between Washington and Tehran.

"I spoke with Secretary Esper this evening about the latest security developments in the region. We both agreed that it`s time for urgent #de-escalation between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran," Ghani tweeted.

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I spoke with Secretary <a href="https://twitter.com/EsperDoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EsperDoD</a> this evening about the latest security developments in the region. We both agreed that it's time for urgent <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/de?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#de</a>-escalation between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1214574027769024513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The tensions between the two nations have persisted since 2018 when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-is-well-so-far-so-good-says-trump-after-irans-missile-strikes-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272818">Trump</a> unilaterally announced that the US is not a part of the 2015 nuclear deal which was brokered by his predecessor Barack Obama.

Following the withdrawal from the deal, the United States has imposed a number of sanctions against Iran to force the country to renegotiate the deal. The sanctions have crippled the Iranian economy, however, the country refused to bog down to US pressure and started to do away with the terms of the deal.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper on Tuesday (local times) said that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Pakistani Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa offered him sound advice during a phone call on the escalation of tensions in the middle eastern region.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper on Tuesday (local times) said that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Pakistani Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa offered him sound advice during a phone call on the escalation of tensions in the middle eastern region. "The United States does not seek conflict but will respond forcefully if necessary. Afghan President and Pakistani General Bajwa both offered sound counsel and advice in calls today," Esper tweeted. The United States does not seek conflict, but will respond forcefully if necessary. Afghan President @ashrafghani and Pakistani General Bajwa both offered sound counsel and advice in calls today. — Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper (@EsperDoD) January 7, 2020 × Trump administration has dialled up various leaders in the world to defend United States` fatal strike that claimed the life of Iranian Quds Force chief Qasem Soleimani. The attack has further downgraded US relations with Tehran. Iran has vowed to take revenge for the killing of the most revered military personnel in Iran. The strike has been deployed by several countries including Iraq, Russia, and China."I always appreciate speaking with our partners and allies in the region. We all seek the de-escalation of tensions with Iran," he added. Meanwhile, Ghani took to Twitter to inform about the phone call between Esper and him, adding that he and Esper agreed that its time for an urgent de-escalation between Washington and Tehran. "I spoke with Secretary Esper this evening about the latest security developments in the region. We both agreed that it`s time for urgent #de-escalation between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran," Ghani tweeted. I spoke with Secretary @EsperDoD this evening about the latest security developments in the region. We both agreed that it's time for urgent #de-escalation between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) January 7, 2020 × The tensions between the two nations have persisted since 2018 when Trump unilaterally announced that the US is not a part of the 2015 nuclear deal which was brokered by his predecessor Barack Obama. Following the withdrawal from the deal, the United States has imposed a number of sanctions against Iran to force the country to renegotiate the deal. The sanctions have crippled the Iranian economy, however, the country refused to bog down to US pressure and started to do away with the terms of the deal.

Afghan President, Pakistan Army Chief offer sound advice over Iran conflict: US defence secretary

Taliban militants ambushed a government checkpoint in Balkh province in Afghanistan's north, killing at least 15 members of the security forces, local officials said on Tuesday, the latest in an escalating series of insurgent attacks.

More than 18 years after US-led forces toppled the hardline Taliban regime, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/100-terrorists-killed-45-injured-over-last-24-hours-in-afghanistan-269918">Afghan forces</a> are suffering record casualties with Afghan and US&nbsp;officials warning that the toll is not sustainable.

Despite a winter lull in fighting due to heavy snowfall in the mountains where the Islamist Taliban typically rest and regroup ahead of their annual spring offensive, assaults on vulnerable security checkpoints continue across the country.

Mohammad Yousuf, the district governor of Dawlatabad where the incident took place said, said dozens of Taliban insurgents targeted a checkpoint manned jointly by Afghan soldiers and intelligence agents, killing 15.

An Afghan Defence Ministry statement said seven soldiers had been killed. The ministry tends not to provide exact figures on its casualties sustained in fighting with the Taliban.

The Taliban, fighting to oust foreign forces and overthrow the Western-backed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-round-two-of-presidential-poll-possible-amid-complaints-269766">Kabul government</a>, claimed responsibility and said at least 20 members of the security forces were killed, six wounded and four captured. The Taliban often inflates casualty figure they inflict on Afghan government forces.

As Afghan security force casualties mounted this year, the government pulled back from hundreds of checkpoints in isolated areas that acted as a magnet for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-soldier-killed-in-afghanistan-269652">Taliban attacks</a>.

Tens of thousands of Afghan civilians, members of the security forces and 2,400 US&nbsp;military personnel have been killed in fighting since 2001.

Taliban militants ambushed a government checkpoint in Balkh province in Afghanistan's north, killing at least 15 members of the security forces, local officials said on Tuesday, the latest in an escalating series of insurgent attacks.

Taliban militants ambushed a government checkpoint in Balkh province in Afghanistan's north, killing at least 15 members of the security forces, local officials said on Tuesday, the latest in an escalating series of insurgent attacks. More than 18 years after US-led forces toppled the hardline Taliban regime, Afghan forces are suffering record casualties with Afghan and US officials warning that the toll is not sustainable. Despite a winter lull in fighting due to heavy snowfall in the mountains where the Islamist Taliban typically rest and regroup ahead of their annual spring offensive, assaults on vulnerable security checkpoints continue across the country. Mohammad Yousuf, the district governor of Dawlatabad where the incident took place said, said dozens of Taliban insurgents targeted a checkpoint manned jointly by Afghan soldiers and intelligence agents, killing 15. An Afghan Defence Ministry statement said seven soldiers had been killed. The ministry tends not to provide exact figures on its casualties sustained in fighting with the Taliban. The Taliban, fighting to oust foreign forces and overthrow the Western-backed Kabul government, claimed responsibility and said at least 20 members of the security forces were killed, six wounded and four captured. The Taliban often inflates casualty figure they inflict on Afghan government forces. As Afghan security force casualties mounted this year, the government pulled back from hundreds of checkpoints in isolated areas that acted as a magnet for Taliban attacks. Tens of thousands of Afghan civilians, members of the security forces and 2,400 US military personnel have been killed in fighting since 2001.

Taliban kill 15 in attack on Afghan security checkpoint: Officials

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday welcomed the preliminary results of Afghanistan presidential elections. The ministry also assured India's support to the neighbouring country in its fight to terrorism.

The ministry, in an official statement, said, "we hope that the Afghan leaders and other stakeholders will work together to further strengthen the democratic polity and to fight the serious challenges of terrorism facing the country."

"India remains committed to working with the people and Government of Afghanistan in its fight against terrorism and its pursuit of socio-economic development," the official statement read.

After nearly three months of Afghanistan Presidential vote, Independent Election Commission on Sunday announced preliminary results in which Ashraf Ghani secured a victory with 50.64 per cent votes.

Meanwhile, the opposition leader and currently the Chief Executive Officer of Afghanistan scored 39.52 per cent votes.

Millions of people in Afghanistan braved persistent threats from the Taliban and cast their votes in September.&nbsp;

However, the elections were marred by low voter turnout, logistical issues, and fraud allegations and attacks by the Taliban.

 
&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday welcomed the preliminary results of Afghanistan presidential elections. The ministry also assured India's support to the neighbouring country in its fight to terrorism.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday welcomed the preliminary results of Afghanistan presidential elections. The ministry also assured India's support to the neighbouring country in its fight to terrorism. The ministry, in an official statement, said, "we hope that the Afghan leaders and other stakeholders will work together to further strengthen the democratic polity and to fight the serious challenges of terrorism facing the country." "India remains committed to working with the people and Government of Afghanistan in its fight against terrorism and its pursuit of socio-economic development," the official statement read. After nearly three months of Afghanistan Presidential vote, Independent Election Commission on Sunday announced preliminary results in which Ashraf Ghani secured a victory with 50.64 per cent votes. Meanwhile, the opposition leader and currently the Chief Executive Officer of Afghanistan scored 39.52 per cent votes. Millions of people in Afghanistan braved persistent threats from the Taliban and cast their votes in September. However, the elections were marred by low voter turnout, logistical issues, and fraud allegations and attacks by the Taliban.

India welcomes preliminary results of Afghanistan presidential election

Ashraf Ghani recently won the majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll. The preliminary results of the presidential polls in Afghanistan were announced today (December 22), nearly three months after the voting that was marred by low turnout and fraud claims. #WION #AshrafGhani #AfghanistanPolls

Ashraf Ghani wins majority in Afghanistan's presidential poll

The mortal remains of Japanese doctor Tetsu Nakamura, who died in an attack by unidentified gunmen in Afghanistan earlier this week, were sent back to Japan following a ceremony at the Kabul airport attended by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.

Addressing the ceremony here on Saturday, Ghani described the Japanese aid worker as a "hero" and announced that all completed, as well as incomplete projects he worked on, will be named after him, reported Tolo News.

Ghani extended his condolences to the Nakamura's family, and helped carry his coffin at the airport.

"Dr. Nakamura was a great man who dedicated his whole life for improving the lives of the most vulnerable people in Afghanistan," Ghani said.

Nakamura headed the NGO Peace Medical Service and made great contributions in areas of medical care in the Nangarhar province. His death sparked a strong backlash and an outpouring of grief from the Afghan people with whom he spent thirty years of his life.

The Japanese doctor came to Afghanistan in the 1980s to treat leprosy. He had been awarded honorary Afghan citizenship by President Ghani.

Outside of his contribution in the areas of medical care, he had contributed in the building of 11 dams, over 1500 wells and a 25.5 kilometres long canal.

Nakamura, along with his driver and bodyguards, were killed after unidentified gunmen attacked their vehicle in Afghanistan's eastern province of Nangarhar on Wednesday.

The gunmen had fled the scene after the incident and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet.&nbsp;

The mortal remains of Japanese doctor Tetsu Nakamura, who died in an attack by unidentified gunmen in Afghanistan earlier this week, were sent back to Japan following a ceremony at the Kabul airport attended by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.

The mortal remains of Japanese doctor Tetsu Nakamura, who died in an attack by unidentified gunmen in Afghanistan earlier this week, were sent back to Japan following a ceremony at the Kabul airport attended by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. Addressing the ceremony here on Saturday, Ghani described the Japanese aid worker as a "hero" and announced that all completed, as well as incomplete projects he worked on, will be named after him, reported Tolo News. Ghani extended his condolences to the Nakamura's family, and helped carry his coffin at the airport. "Dr. Nakamura was a great man who dedicated his whole life for improving the lives of the most vulnerable people in Afghanistan," Ghani said. Nakamura headed the NGO Peace Medical Service and made great contributions in areas of medical care in the Nangarhar province. His death sparked a strong backlash and an outpouring of grief from the Afghan people with whom he spent thirty years of his life. The Japanese doctor came to Afghanistan in the 1980s to treat leprosy. He had been awarded honorary Afghan citizenship by President Ghani. Outside of his contribution in the areas of medical care, he had contributed in the building of 11 dams, over 1500 wells and a 25.5 kilometres long canal. Nakamura, along with his driver and bodyguards, were killed after unidentified gunmen attacked their vehicle in Afghanistan's eastern province of Nangarhar on Wednesday. The gunmen had fled the scene after the incident and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet.

Afghanistan: Mortal remains of Tetsu Nakamura sent back to Japan

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Friday (December 6) met with the relatives of Tetsu Nakamura, a Japanese doctor and aid worker killed in an attack in eastern Afghanistan.

Nakamura was killed on Wednesday (December 4) by unknown gunmen who riddled the car he and five others were driving in the city of Jalalabad.

Born in western Japan, Nakamura, 73, trained as a doctor and answered a 1984 recruitment call to work in a clinic treating leprosy in the Pakistani city of Peshawar, attracted by the region's stark beauty.

He began treating Afghan refugees who were pouring over the border in the wake of the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, which led to him opening a clinic in that country in 1991.

Following a devastating 2000 drought which brought scores of starving and ill people to his clinic, he first helped bore wells and then came up with the idea of an irrigation canal, inspired by similarities between Japanese and Afghan rivers.

In 2003 - the same year Nakamura was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award, often called Asia's Nobel - construction began. After six gruelling years of labour, much of it by hand and in temperatures as high as 50 Celsius, the canal was finally completed.

Since then, some 16,000 hectares (40,000 acres) of the desert has been brought back to life, making Nakamura such a widely revered figure in Afghanistan that earlier this year he became the first foreigner awarded Afghan citizenship.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Friday (December 6) met with the relatives of Tetsu Nakamura, a Japanese doctor and aid worker killed in an attack in eastern Afghanistan.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Friday (December 6) met with the relatives of Tetsu Nakamura, a Japanese doctor and aid worker killed in an attack in eastern Afghanistan. Nakamura was killed on Wednesday (December 4) by unknown gunmen who riddled the car he and five others were driving in the city of Jalalabad. Born in western Japan, Nakamura, 73, trained as a doctor and answered a 1984 recruitment call to work in a clinic treating leprosy in the Pakistani city of Peshawar, attracted by the region's stark beauty. He began treating Afghan refugees who were pouring over the border in the wake of the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, which led to him opening a clinic in that country in 1991. Following a devastating 2000 drought which brought scores of starving and ill people to his clinic, he first helped bore wells and then came up with the idea of an irrigation canal, inspired by similarities between Japanese and Afghan rivers. In 2003 - the same year Nakamura was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award, often called Asia's Nobel - construction began. After six gruelling years of labour, much of it by hand and in temperatures as high as 50 Celsius, the canal was finally completed. Since then, some 16,000 hectares (40,000 acres) of the desert has been brought back to life, making Nakamura such a widely revered figure in Afghanistan that earlier this year he became the first foreigner awarded Afghan citizenship.

Afghanistan's Ghani meets family of Japanese doctor killed in attack

By Mallika Singh

Japanse physician and aid worker, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/five-afghans-killed-in-jalalabad-attack-japanese-doctor-wounded-266121">Tetsu Nakamura</a>, was shot dead along with five Afghans including his bodyguards, driver and another passenger in an attack in Afghanistan on Wednesday.&nbsp;

<meta charset="utf-8" />

The Japanese aid agency was shot on the right side of his chest when gunmen open fired on his car in Jalalabad in Nangarhar province, said Afghan officials.&nbsp;

The doctor underwent surgery at a local hospital and was in the process of being transferred to Bagram near Kabul when he passed away at the Jalalabad airport.&nbsp;

“Sadly, Dr Nakamura has passed away from the wounds he received in the armed attack this morning,” said a spokesman for Nangarhar’s governor.

The attack on the aid worker comes a week after a grenade attack on a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-for-talks-if-united-states-lifts-sanctions-iran-266151">United Nations</a> vehicle in Kabul increasing fears of the humanitarian workers in the conflict-ridden region.&nbsp;

Nakamura, the head of Peace Japan Medical services - known as Peshawar-kai in Japanese - devoted 35 years of his life to healing the wounded in Afghanistan of which he became an honorary citizen last year in October.&nbsp;

The doctor had opened a clinic in a remote village in Afghanistan in 1991, before which he treated leprosy in Pakistanis and sick Afghan refugees. The native Fukuoka had been heading the Nangarhar aid group since 2008.&nbsp;

Nakamura, last year claimed last year that his posting was meant to be for “five or six years” in an interview with national broadcaster NHK. “The plan was to come home when I was done.”

“We didn’t have proper facilities (for surgery and rehabilitation) but I couldn't just run away and abandon these people," he said.

There was no immediate claim for the responsibility of the attack for which the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-should-accept-us-proposal-for-ceasefire-afghanistan-government-265605">Taliban</a> has denied responsibility claiming to have “good relations” with organisations that “contribute to the reconstruction of Afghanistan.”

Japan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-blasts-japans-shinzo-abe-warns-of-real-ballistic-missile-265425">Shinzo Abe</a> said he was “shocked” at the aid worker’s death who risked his life to do “various work” for which the people of Afghanistan were thankful.&nbsp;

"I am shocked that he had to die in this way," Abe told reporters in a news conference in Tokyo.

"He risked his life in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eight-including-newborn-killed-in-airstrike-in-afghanistans-khost-province-265602">dangerous environment</a> to do various work, and the people of Afghanistan were very grateful to him," he added.

The police have launched a search operation to arrest the gunmen who fled the scene said officials who claimed to believe that the doctor was targeted for his work.&nbsp;

"Dr Nakamura has been doing great work in the reconstruction of Afghanistan, especially in irrigation and agriculture," the official said.

"The Afghan government strongly condemns the heinous and cowardly attack on Afghans' greatest friend, Dr Nakamura," said a spokesman for Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.

"He has dedicated all his life to change the lives of Afghans."

(With inputs from agencies)

By Mallika Singh Japanse physician and aid worker, Tetsu Nakamura, was shot dead along with five Afghans including his bodyguards, driver and another passenger in an attack in Afghanistan on Wednesday.

By Mallika Singh Japanse physician and aid worker, Tetsu Nakamura, was shot dead along with five Afghans including his bodyguards, driver and another passenger in an attack in Afghanistan on Wednesday. The Japanese aid agency was shot on the right side of his chest when gunmen open fired on his car in Jalalabad in Nangarhar province, said Afghan officials. The doctor underwent surgery at a local hospital and was in the process of being transferred to Bagram near Kabul when he passed away at the Jalalabad airport. “Sadly, Dr Nakamura has passed away from the wounds he received in the armed attack this morning,” said a spokesman for Nangarhar’s governor. The attack on the aid worker comes a week after a grenade attack on a United Nations vehicle in Kabul increasing fears of the humanitarian workers in the conflict-ridden region. Nakamura, the head of Peace Japan Medical services - known as Peshawar-kai in Japanese - devoted 35 years of his life to healing the wounded in Afghanistan of which he became an honorary citizen last year in October. The doctor had opened a clinic in a remote village in Afghanistan in 1991, before which he treated leprosy in Pakistanis and sick Afghan refugees. The native Fukuoka had been heading the Nangarhar aid group since 2008. Nakamura, last year claimed last year that his posting was meant to be for “five or six years” in an interview with national broadcaster NHK. “The plan was to come home when I was done.” “We didn’t have proper facilities (for surgery and rehabilitation) but I couldn't just run away and abandon these people," he said. There was no immediate claim for the responsibility of the attack for which the Taliban has denied responsibility claiming to have “good relations” with organisations that “contribute to the reconstruction of Afghanistan.” Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he was “shocked” at the aid worker’s death who risked his life to do “various work” for which the people of Afghanistan were thankful. "I am shocked that he had to die in this way," Abe told reporters in a news conference in Tokyo. "He risked his life in a dangerous environment to do various work, and the people of Afghanistan were very grateful to him," he added. The police have launched a search operation to arrest the gunmen who fled the scene said officials who claimed to believe that the doctor was targeted for his work. "Dr Nakamura has been doing great work in the reconstruction of Afghanistan, especially in irrigation and agriculture," the official said. "The Afghan government strongly condemns the heinous and cowardly attack on Afghans' greatest friend, Dr Nakamura," said a spokesman for Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. "He has dedicated all his life to change the lives of Afghans." (With inputs from agencies)

Japanese doctor and aid worker Tetsu Nakamura shot dead in Afghanistan

President Ghani's spokesperson Sediq Sediqqi on Sunday said that the Taliban should accept United States' proposal for a ceasefire agreement as that will pave way for the direct talks between the group and the Afghan government.

This statement of the Afghan government comes after US President Donald Trump advocated a peace "owned by the Afghan government" during his Thursday visit at Bagram airfield.

"Our hope is that the Taliban will work to accept their (US) ceasefire. If they (Taliban) are really committed to giving up the war - in our opinion - the best opportunity is for them to accept that opportunity," Tolo News quoted Sediqqi as saying.

During his first and a surprise meeting to Afghanistan earlier this week, US President Donald Trump had said that the terms of the deal between Washington and the Taliban would have to include a Taliban ceasefire, adding that he thought the group would agree to it.

"The Taliban wants to make a deal and we're meeting with them and we're saying it has to be a ceasefire and they didn't want to do a ceasefire and now they do want to do a ceasefire. I believe it'll probably work out that way," he said.

Meanwhile, a former member of the Taliban has said that the group would not agree to a ceasefire agreement until it does not sign a peace deal with the US.

"The agreement will be signed first, then a ceasefire will be announced. The Taliban's big secret and reason for signing an agreement are to make sure that the group has a guarantee from the US - build trust and then declare a ceasefire," said Mawolana Jalaluddin Shinwari, a former member of the Taliban. 
&nbsp;

President Ghani's spokesperson Sediq Sediqqi on Sunday said that the Taliban should accept United States' proposal for a ceasefire agreement as that will pave way for the direct talks between the group and the Afghan government.

President Ghani's spokesperson Sediq Sediqqi on Sunday said that the Taliban should accept United States' proposal for a ceasefire agreement as that will pave way for the direct talks between the group and the Afghan government. This statement of the Afghan government comes after US President Donald Trump advocated a peace "owned by the Afghan government" during his Thursday visit at Bagram airfield. "Our hope is that the Taliban will work to accept their (US) ceasefire. If they (Taliban) are really committed to giving up the war - in our opinion - the best opportunity is for them to accept that opportunity," Tolo News quoted Sediqqi as saying. During his first and a surprise meeting to Afghanistan earlier this week, US President Donald Trump had said that the terms of the deal between Washington and the Taliban would have to include a Taliban ceasefire, adding that he thought the group would agree to it. "The Taliban wants to make a deal and we're meeting with them and we're saying it has to be a ceasefire and they didn't want to do a ceasefire and now they do want to do a ceasefire. I believe it'll probably work out that way," he said. Meanwhile, a former member of the Taliban has said that the group would not agree to a ceasefire agreement until it does not sign a peace deal with the US. "The agreement will be signed first, then a ceasefire will be announced. The Taliban's big secret and reason for signing an agreement are to make sure that the group has a guarantee from the US - build trust and then declare a ceasefire," said Mawolana Jalaluddin Shinwari, a former member of the Taliban.

Taliban should accept US proposal for ceasefire: Afghanistan government

Security forces have "obliterated" Islamic State (IS) militants in Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani said on Tuesday, hours after a prisoner swap with Taliban insurgents raised hopes of a lull in violence in the country.

More than 600 fighters from IS, locally known as Daesh, have surrendered with their families to the Afghan government in past weeks. Officials say airstrikes by Afghan and coalition forces, lack of funds and low morale have forced the group to give up.

"No one believed one year ago that we would stand up and today be saying we have obliterated Daesh," Ghani told a gathering of elders and officials in Jalalabad, the main city of eastern Nangarhar province that saw a wave of suicide attacks in past years claimed by the jihadists.

"Now that Daesh militants have surrendered, I ask authorities to treat their families humanely," Ghani added.

The government says among fighters in its custody are foreign nationals from Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and the Maldives.

However, the Afghan Taliban, which has been battling IS and the government for control of the country disputed that.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's official spokesman, described Ghani's announcement as "absurd".

Security forces have "obliterated" Islamic State (IS) militants in Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani said on Tuesday, hours after a prisoner swap with Taliban insurgents raised hopes of a lull in violence in the country.

Security forces have "obliterated" Islamic State (IS) militants in Afghanistan, President Ashraf Ghani said on Tuesday, hours after a prisoner swap with Taliban insurgents raised hopes of a lull in violence in the country. More than 600 fighters from IS, locally known as Daesh, have surrendered with their families to the Afghan government in past weeks. Officials say airstrikes by Afghan and coalition forces, lack of funds and low morale have forced the group to give up. "No one believed one year ago that we would stand up and today be saying we have obliterated Daesh," Ghani told a gathering of elders and officials in Jalalabad, the main city of eastern Nangarhar province that saw a wave of suicide attacks in past years claimed by the jihadists. "Now that Daesh militants have surrendered, I ask authorities to treat their families humanely," Ghani added. The government says among fighters in its custody are foreign nationals from Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and the Maldives. However, the Afghan Taliban, which has been battling IS and the government for control of the country disputed that. Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's official spokesman, described Ghani's announcement as "absurd".

Afghanistan's president claims victory over Islamic State

The Afghan Taliban released two Western hostages on Tuesday, Afghan government officials said, completing a delayed prisoner swap for three of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-commanders-slated-to-be-swapped-for-western-hostages-arrive-in-qatar-263122">militant group's commanders</a> and raising hopes for of a revival of efforts for peace.

American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors.

The US-backed government's decision to carry out the swap is seen as key to securing direct talks with the Islamist militants, who have, until now, refused to engage with what they call an illegitimate "puppet" regime in Kabul.

"The two professors are safely freed and are being taken care of now," said a senior Afghan official on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media.

He did not provide further details.

Earlier on Tuesday, three Taliban sources familiar with the deal, including one in Qatar, home to the political leadership of the Afghan Taliban, said the three Taliban commanders who are part of the swap were freed from jail in Afghanistan.

"Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar," said a Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he is not authorised to speak publicly about the deal.

Spokesmen for the Afghan government and the United States embassy in Kabul were not immediately available for comment.

On November&nbsp;12, President Ashraf Ghani said Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network, a militant faction of the Taliban responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two other Taliban commanders.

But the swap was abruptly postponed, with the Taliban then shifting their hostages to a new location.

The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan.

King and Weeks were last seen in a 2017 hostage video looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release.

The prisoner exchange could help nudge forward efforts to end the Afghan war.

The United States and the Taliban were for most of the past year discussing a plan for the withdrawal of US troops in exchange for Taliban security guarantees.

But US President Donald Trump halted the talks last month, despite his hopes to end America's longest war, following the death of a US soldier and 11 other people in a Taliban bomb attack in Kabul.

Before the talks were broken off, the United States and the Taliban both said they were close to reaching a deal.

The Afghan Taliban released two Western hostages on Tuesday, Afghan government officials said, completing a delayed prisoner swap for three of the militant group's commanders and raising hopes for of a revival of efforts for peace.

The Afghan Taliban released two Western hostages on Tuesday, Afghan government officials said, completing a delayed prisoner swap for three of the militant group's commanders and raising hopes for of a revival of efforts for peace. American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks were kidnapped in August 2016 from outside the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul where both worked as professors. The US-backed government's decision to carry out the swap is seen as key to securing direct talks with the Islamist militants, who have, until now, refused to engage with what they call an illegitimate "puppet" regime in Kabul. "The two professors are safely freed and are being taken care of now," said a senior Afghan official on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. He did not provide further details. Earlier on Tuesday, three Taliban sources familiar with the deal, including one in Qatar, home to the political leadership of the Afghan Taliban, said the three Taliban commanders who are part of the swap were freed from jail in Afghanistan. "Soon after their release, they were flown to Doha and handed over to the political office in Qatar," said a Taliban leader in Afghanistan, who declined to be identified because he is not authorised to speak publicly about the deal. Spokesmen for the Afghan government and the United States embassy in Kabul were not immediately available for comment. On November 12, President Ashraf Ghani said Afghanistan would free Anas Haqqani, a senior figure in the eponymous Haqqani network, a militant faction of the Taliban responsible for some of the worst violence in recent years, and two other Taliban commanders. But the swap was abruptly postponed, with the Taliban then shifting their hostages to a new location. The Haqqani network has in recent years carried out large-scale attacks on Afghan civilians. It is believed to be based in Pakistan and is part of the Taliban in Afghanistan. King and Weeks were last seen in a 2017 hostage video looking dishevelled and pleading with their governments to secure their release. The prisoner exchange could help nudge forward efforts to end the Afghan war. The United States and the Taliban were for most of the past year discussing a plan for the withdrawal of US troops in exchange for Taliban security guarantees. But US President Donald Trump halted the talks last month, despite his hopes to end America's longest war, following the death of a US soldier and 11 other people in a Taliban bomb attack in Kabul. Before the talks were broken off, the United States and the Taliban both said they were close to reaching a deal.

Western hostages freed by Afghan Taliban in swap for top commanders

A Taliban spokesman said Thursday the insurgents were still holding two Western hostages, as officials stayed tight-lipped over the outcome of an apparent prisoner swap announced by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani earlier this week.

Ghani announced on Tuesday that his government would "conditionally" release three high-ranking Taliban insurgents, including Anas Haqqani, brother to the leader of the eponymous Haqqani Network, one of the Taliban's deadliest and most feared factions.&nbsp;

He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages -- an Australian and an American -- but noted that their health had been deteriorating and that their release would help pave the way for peace negotiations.&nbsp;

Two days later, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed to AFP that no swap had yet taken place.

"The three people have not been handed over to us, and we have not freed our prisoners yet," he said.&nbsp;

The reasons for the delay were not clear. Afghan officials remained tight-lipped Thursday, and the Australian foreign office has said it will not provide a "running commentary" on the process.

The US ambassador had initially welcomed Ghani's statement, but officials have given no further information since.

Waheed Muzhda, who served as an official in the Taliban's 1996-2001 regime, said the swap still could happen, but suggested the delay could be an issue of trust.&nbsp;

"The concern is that there will be a tweet by Trump or another American official to say the deal is off, as it happened in the case of peace talks," he told AFP.

Earlier this year, the Taliban and the US were on the verge of a deal that would have seen Washington begin withdrawing troops in return for security guarantees from the insurgents.&nbsp;

Many had hoped the deal would pave the way for direct talks between Kabul and the Taliban, which most analysts agree is the only way to achieve a lasting peace in Afghanistan.

However, US President Donald Trump abruptly called off the talks in September, days before the deal was widely expected to have been signed.

Muzhda said the insurgents were insisting that Haqqani and the two other prisoners be delivered in to their custody first -- potentially in Qatar, where they maintain a political office -- before releasing the hostages.

A bomb blast in Kabul on Wednesday which killed 12 people could also have been an effort to sabotage the deal, he said. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the blast.

A Taliban spokesman said Thursday the insurgents were still holding two Western hostages, as officials stayed tight-lipped over the outcome of an apparent prisoner swap announced by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani earlier this week.

A Taliban spokesman said Thursday the insurgents were still holding two Western hostages, as officials stayed tight-lipped over the outcome of an apparent prisoner swap announced by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani earlier this week. Ghani announced on Tuesday that his government would "conditionally" release three high-ranking Taliban insurgents, including Anas Haqqani, brother to the leader of the eponymous Haqqani Network, one of the Taliban's deadliest and most feared factions. He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages -- an Australian and an American -- but noted that their health had been deteriorating and that their release would help pave the way for peace negotiations. Two days later, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed to AFP that no swap had yet taken place. "The three people have not been handed over to us, and we have not freed our prisoners yet," he said. The reasons for the delay were not clear. Afghan officials remained tight-lipped Thursday, and the Australian foreign office has said it will not provide a "running commentary" on the process. The US ambassador had initially welcomed Ghani's statement, but officials have given no further information since. Waheed Muzhda, who served as an official in the Taliban's 1996-2001 regime, said the swap still could happen, but suggested the delay could be an issue of trust. "The concern is that there will be a tweet by Trump or another American official to say the deal is off, as it happened in the case of peace talks," he told AFP. Earlier this year, the Taliban and the US were on the verge of a deal that would have seen Washington begin withdrawing troops in return for security guarantees from the insurgents. Many had hoped the deal would pave the way for direct talks between Kabul and the Taliban, which most analysts agree is the only way to achieve a lasting peace in Afghanistan. However, US President Donald Trump abruptly called off the talks in September, days before the deal was widely expected to have been signed. Muzhda said the insurgents were insisting that Haqqani and the two other prisoners be delivered in to their custody first -- potentially in Qatar, where they maintain a political office -- before releasing the hostages. A bomb blast in Kabul on Wednesday which killed 12 people could also have been an effort to sabotage the deal, he said. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the blast.

Taliban still holding Western hostages: Spokesman

Preliminary results from Afghanistan's presidential election have been delayed for a second time, election officials announced Wednesday, a postponement likely to fuel more political uncertainty and fraud allegations.

The September 28 poll has already been marred by a record-low turnout and bicking between the incumbent, President Ashraf Ghani, and his chief rival, Abdullah Abdullah.&nbsp;

The preliminary results were originally due for October 19 -- but the announcement was delayed until November 14, with officials from the Independent Election Commissions (IEC) citing various technical problems.

Now that date has been pushed back also.

"Unfortunately due to technical problems and other issues, we will not be able to announce the election results tomorrow," IEC spokesman Abdul Aziz Ibrahimi told AFP on Wednesday, without providing details or a new date.

IEC officials are expected to hold a press conference on the matter on Thursday.

The fresh delay comes shortly after the IEC issued a statement saying it had to stop a planned recount and audit of the votes after some candidates said they would boycott and protest the process, claiming fraud.&nbsp;

The IEC had begun a recount of votes from more than 8,000 polling stations –- almost a third of the total –- on Saturday, but the process was challenged mainly by Abdullah's supporters.

Abdullah -- who currently works as chief executive in a unity government with Ghani -- has previously raised questions about the validity of some 300,000 additional votes which he says did not come through biometric devices used in the polling and thus should be invalidated.

"The recounting should be stopped. We are trying to save the process from fraudsters," he said at a rally of his supporters in Kabul last week.

In the past several days his supporters stopped the recount process in 14 of Afghanistan's 34 provinces, according to election officials -- in some cases closing the doors of provincial election offices.

There was no immediate comment from the candidates about the delay on Wednesday.

The election was meant to be the cleanest yet in Afghanistan's young democracy, with a German firm supplying biometric machines that were supposed to stop people from voting more than once.

But nearly a million of the initial votes were purged owing to irregularities, meaning the election saw by far the lowest turnout of any Afghan poll, with only about 1.8 million votes from a total of 9.6 million registered voters in a population of around 37 million people.

Earlier this week, the United Nations and a group of Western donor nations called on the candidates not to "undermine" the poll.&nbsp;

The ongoing uncertainty raises the possibility Afghanistan is headed for a repeat of the crisis that followed the last presidential election in 2014.&nbsp;

Then, Ghani and Abdullah fought a close and angry race that sparked widespread allegations of fraud and saw the US step into broker an awkward power-sharing agreement between the rivals under a unity government.

Preliminary results from Afghanistan's presidential election have been delayed for a second time, election officials announced Wednesday, a postponement likely to fuel more political uncertainty and fraud allegations.

Preliminary results from Afghanistan's presidential election have been delayed for a second time, election officials announced Wednesday, a postponement likely to fuel more political uncertainty and fraud allegations. The September 28 poll has already been marred by a record-low turnout and bicking between the incumbent, President Ashraf Ghani, and his chief rival, Abdullah Abdullah. The preliminary results were originally due for October 19 -- but the announcement was delayed until November 14, with officials from the Independent Election Commissions (IEC) citing various technical problems. Now that date has been pushed back also. "Unfortunately due to technical problems and other issues, we will not be able to announce the election results tomorrow," IEC spokesman Abdul Aziz Ibrahimi told AFP on Wednesday, without providing details or a new date. IEC officials are expected to hold a press conference on the matter on Thursday. The fresh delay comes shortly after the IEC issued a statement saying it had to stop a planned recount and audit of the votes after some candidates said they would boycott and protest the process, claiming fraud. The IEC had begun a recount of votes from more than 8,000 polling stations –- almost a third of the total –- on Saturday, but the process was challenged mainly by Abdullah's supporters. Abdullah -- who currently works as chief executive in a unity government with Ghani -- has previously raised questions about the validity of some 300,000 additional votes which he says did not come through biometric devices used in the polling and thus should be invalidated. "The recounting should be stopped. We are trying to save the process from fraudsters," he said at a rally of his supporters in Kabul last week. In the past several days his supporters stopped the recount process in 14 of Afghanistan's 34 provinces, according to election officials -- in some cases closing the doors of provincial election offices. There was no immediate comment from the candidates about the delay on Wednesday. The election was meant to be the cleanest yet in Afghanistan's young democracy, with a German firm supplying biometric machines that were supposed to stop people from voting more than once. But nearly a million of the initial votes were purged owing to irregularities, meaning the election saw by far the lowest turnout of any Afghan poll, with only about 1.8 million votes from a total of 9.6 million registered voters in a population of around 37 million people. Earlier this week, the United Nations and a group of Western donor nations called on the candidates not to "undermine" the poll. The ongoing uncertainty raises the possibility Afghanistan is headed for a repeat of the crisis that followed the last presidential election in 2014. Then, Ghani and Abdullah fought a close and angry race that sparked widespread allegations of fraud and saw the US step into broker an awkward power-sharing agreement between the rivals under a unity government.

Afghanistan's presidential poll results delayed again

Two Western hostages of the Taliban, who are expected to be freed in a prisoner swap for three militants, will be released only when the insurgents "reach their destination", a spokesman for the Islamist group said Wednesday.

The fate of the American and Australian hostages -- both professors at the American University in Kabul when they were kidnapped in 2016 -- remained unclear a day after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced the exchange.&nbsp;

"When our captives reach their destination, the American University professors will be released," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told AFP on Wednesday.

He did not specify what that destination would be.&nbsp;

Afghan authorities declined to comment further on Wednesday, while the US embassy in Kabul said it had no further information after its ambassador had welcomed the news a day earlier.

Australia's foreign ministry said it did not want to give a "running commentary" on the process.&nbsp;

"We sincerely appreciate President Ghani’s concern for Tim Weeks and Kevin King, and hope the Taliban immediately releases the hostages," a spokesperson said.

Ghani said Tuesday that three prisoners -- including Anas Haqqani, brother to the leader of one of the Taliban's most feared factions -- would be freed.

The move was in apparent exchange for the release of the two Western hostages, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks.

But Ghani did not say when or where any swap would take place.

Mujahid said he "cannot confirm" if the Taliban prisoners had already been released. They were last known to have been detained by Afghan authorities in Bagram prison, north of Kabul.&nbsp;

Ghani had hinted on Tuesday that they could be released outside the country, stating that after consulting with international partners including Washington "we have made sure that the release of these three prisoners would not reinforce the enemy's frontlines or increase their attacks".

King and Weeks were kidnapped by gunmen wearing military uniforms in the heart of Kabul in August, 2016.

They later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health.

On Tuesday, Ghani noted that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists".

Anas Haqqani is the son of Jalaluddin Haqqani, founder of the eponymous Taliban affiliate which is one of the top US targets in the region.

His brother Sirajuddin now leads the Haqqani Network and is deputy head of the Taliban.&nbsp;

Afghan authorities accuse Anas of a being a high-level player in the network. The Taliban has long demanded his release, insisting he is a student.&nbsp;

The other two Taliban prisoners to be released are Haji Mali Khan, believed to be the uncle of Sirajuddin Haqqani, and Abdul Rashid, said to be the brother of Mohammad Nabi Omari, a member of the Taliban's political office in Qatar.

Two Western hostages of the Taliban, who are expected to be freed in a prisoner swap for three militants, will be released only when the insurgents "reach their destination", a spokesman for the Islamist group said Wednesday.

Two Western hostages of the Taliban, who are expected to be freed in a prisoner swap for three militants, will be released only when the insurgents "reach their destination", a spokesman for the Islamist group said Wednesday. The fate of the American and Australian hostages -- both professors at the American University in Kabul when they were kidnapped in 2016 -- remained unclear a day after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced the exchange. "When our captives reach their destination, the American University professors will be released," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told AFP on Wednesday. He did not specify what that destination would be. Afghan authorities declined to comment further on Wednesday, while the US embassy in Kabul said it had no further information after its ambassador had welcomed the news a day earlier. Australia's foreign ministry said it did not want to give a "running commentary" on the process. "We sincerely appreciate President Ghani’s concern for Tim Weeks and Kevin King, and hope the Taliban immediately releases the hostages," a spokesperson said. Ghani said Tuesday that three prisoners -- including Anas Haqqani, brother to the leader of one of the Taliban's most feared factions -- would be freed. The move was in apparent exchange for the release of the two Western hostages, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks. But Ghani did not say when or where any swap would take place. Mujahid said he "cannot confirm" if the Taliban prisoners had already been released. They were last known to have been detained by Afghan authorities in Bagram prison, north of Kabul. Ghani had hinted on Tuesday that they could be released outside the country, stating that after consulting with international partners including Washington "we have made sure that the release of these three prisoners would not reinforce the enemy's frontlines or increase their attacks". King and Weeks were kidnapped by gunmen wearing military uniforms in the heart of Kabul in August, 2016. They later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health. On Tuesday, Ghani noted that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists". Anas Haqqani is the son of Jalaluddin Haqqani, founder of the eponymous Taliban affiliate which is one of the top US targets in the region. His brother Sirajuddin now leads the Haqqani Network and is deputy head of the Taliban. Afghan authorities accuse Anas of a being a high-level player in the network. The Taliban has long demanded his release, insisting he is a student. The other two Taliban prisoners to be released are Haji Mali Khan, believed to be the uncle of Sirajuddin Haqqani, and Abdul Rashid, said to be the brother of Mohammad Nabi Omari, a member of the Taliban's political office in Qatar.

Uncertainty over fate of western hostages, Taliban prisoners

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced Tuesday that three high-ranking Taliban prisoners would be released, in an apparent exchange for two Western hostages who were kidnapped by the insurgents in 2016.

The three Taliban prisoners include Anas Haqqani, who was seized in 2014 and whose older brother is the deputy Taliban leader and head of the Haqqani network, a notorious Taliban affiliate.

"We have decided to conditionally release three Taliban prisoners who... have been in Bagram prison in the custody of the Afghan government for some time," Ghani said in an announcement at the presidential palace.

He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages, an Australian and an American, and it was not clear when or where they would be freed.

But Ghani noted in his speech that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists".

He added that the release of the two professors would "pave the way" for the start of unofficial direct talks between his government and the Taliban, who long have refused to negotiate with Ghani's administration.&nbsp;

Ghani, flanked by his top security advisors, said the decision to release the three Taliban prisoners had been "very hard and necessary".

In August 2016, gunmen wearing military uniforms kidnapped two professors of the American University of Afghanistan in the heart of Kabul.

The two, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks, later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health.

The elite American University of Afghanistan opened in 2006 and has attracted a number of faculty members from Western countries.

The US and the Australian embassies in Kabul declined to provide immediate comment. American University also did not comment.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced Tuesday that three high-ranking Taliban prisoners would be released, in an apparent exchange for two Western hostages who were kidnapped by the insurgents in 2016.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani announced Tuesday that three high-ranking Taliban prisoners would be released, in an apparent exchange for two Western hostages who were kidnapped by the insurgents in 2016. The three Taliban prisoners include Anas Haqqani, who was seized in 2014 and whose older brother is the deputy Taliban leader and head of the Haqqani network, a notorious Taliban affiliate. "We have decided to conditionally release three Taliban prisoners who... have been in Bagram prison in the custody of the Afghan government for some time," Ghani said in an announcement at the presidential palace. He did not specify the fate of the Western hostages, an Australian and an American, and it was not clear when or where they would be freed. But Ghani noted in his speech that "their health has been deteriorating while in the custody of the terrorists". He added that the release of the two professors would "pave the way" for the start of unofficial direct talks between his government and the Taliban, who long have refused to negotiate with Ghani's administration. Ghani, flanked by his top security advisors, said the decision to release the three Taliban prisoners had been "very hard and necessary". In August 2016, gunmen wearing military uniforms kidnapped two professors of the American University of Afghanistan in the heart of Kabul. The two, American Kevin King and Australian Timothy Weeks, later appeared looking haggard in a Taliban hostage video, with the insurgents going on to say that King was in poor health. The elite American University of Afghanistan opened in 2006 and has attracted a number of faculty members from Western countries. The US and the Australian embassies in Kabul declined to provide immediate comment. American University also did not comment.

Afghanistan to release senior Taliban prisoners in apparent swap

The result of the Afghan presidential election may be further delayed, two officials said, after the main challenger to incumbent Ashraf Ghani said on Sunday he would not agree to the addition of hundreds of thousands of what he called suspicious votes to a planned recount.

The result of the Afghan presidential election may be further delayed, two officials said, after the main challenger to incumbent Ashraf Ghani said on Sunday he would not agree to the addition of hundreds of thousands of what he called suspicious votes to a planned recount. The Afghanistan Independent Election Commission (IEC) said on Saturday that it would recount ballots from more than 8,000 polling stations - almost a third of the total - due to what it called discrepancies in their system. But Abdullah Abdullah, who currently shares power with Ghani in a unity government, said Ghani's side was pushing to include some 300,000 additional votes which did not come through biometric devices used in polling and which must be nullified. "The recounting process should stop, and if the election commission continue with recounting process without our observers, we will act," Abdullah told a cheering crowd of supporters in Kabul, accusing Ghani's camp of fraud, which Ghani denies. "Abdullah's camp is afraid of the recount because they would lose," Daoud Sultanzoy, a senior Ghani campaign leader, told Reuters. The standoff is likely to deepen the political crisis in Afghanistan after the Sept. 28 presidential election, which was marred by allegations of fraud. Preliminary results scheduled for later this week might be delayed again, according to two officials at the election commission who declined to be named as they are not authorised to speak publicly about the count. The result was originally due out on Oct. 19, but slow work on data entry and tackling extensive voter fraud delayed the announcement. Eighty-five civilians were killed and more than 370 wounded in militant attacks and violence on the day of the election, the United Nations said last month. Ghani and Abdullah had both claimed victory before the ballots were tallied.

Afghan poll results may be delayed again as candidates spar over recount: Officials

Preliminary results of Afghan president polls delayed. Watch video to know more.

Preliminary results of Afghan president polls delayed

Preliminary results in Afghanistan's presidential election will be delayed beyond Saturday's deadline, two officials from the independent election commission told Reuters, probably for more than a week, fuelling chances of political uncertainty.

War-torn Afghanistan has battled poll-related violence that killed dozens, low voter turnout and fraud accusations in September`s election. Hundreds of thousands of voters have still to be added to an electronic database used to tally votes.

"The data entry of the voters to the main database of the commission has not been completed yet," said Abdul Aziz Ibrahimi, a spokesman of the Independent Election Commission of Afghanistan (IEC).

"Transparency is important: we don`t want to sacrifice transparency for the sake of speed. The data entry has taken longer than was expected."

Nearly 1.8 million voters have been added to the database, he added. This compares with a figure of 2.6 million Afghans who voted, or about a quarter of the electorate.

"Due to slow work on the data entry, the result will be announced with a delay of one week to ten days," said the second official, who sought anonymity as he was not authorised to discuss the precise length of the delay.

It was not immediately clear why the database had not been updated during voting preparations ahead of the election.

Violence linked to polling last month left 85 civilians dead and more than 370 wounded, the United Nations said on Tuesday.

The two presidential front-runners, Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, both claimed victory before ballots were tallied and signalled they would not accept defeat, factors that had already pointed to political uncertainty.

Taliban insurgents rule more of the country than at any time since being ousted from power nearly two decades ago.

They have refused to accept the legitimacy of Ghani`s administration, which they call a puppet government backed by the United States, itself trying to end its longest war.

Preliminary results in Afghanistan's presidential election will be delayed beyond Saturday's deadline, two officials from the independent election commission told Reuters, probably for more than a week, fuelling chances of political uncertainty.

Preliminary results in Afghanistan's presidential election will be delayed beyond Saturday's deadline, two officials from the independent election commission told Reuters, probably for more than a week, fuelling chances of political uncertainty. War-torn Afghanistan has battled poll-related violence that killed dozens, low voter turnout and fraud accusations in September`s election. Hundreds of thousands of voters have still to be added to an electronic database used to tally votes. "The data entry of the voters to the main database of the commission has not been completed yet," said Abdul Aziz Ibrahimi, a spokesman of the Independent Election Commission of Afghanistan (IEC). "Transparency is important: we don`t want to sacrifice transparency for the sake of speed. The data entry has taken longer than was expected." Nearly 1.8 million voters have been added to the database, he added. This compares with a figure of 2.6 million Afghans who voted, or about a quarter of the electorate. "Due to slow work on the data entry, the result will be announced with a delay of one week to ten days," said the second official, who sought anonymity as he was not authorised to discuss the precise length of the delay. It was not immediately clear why the database had not been updated during voting preparations ahead of the election. Violence linked to polling last month left 85 civilians dead and more than 370 wounded, the United Nations said on Tuesday. The two presidential front-runners, Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah, both claimed victory before ballots were tallied and signalled they would not accept defeat, factors that had already pointed to political uncertainty. Taliban insurgents rule more of the country than at any time since being ousted from power nearly two decades ago. They have refused to accept the legitimacy of Ghani`s administration, which they call a puppet government backed by the United States, itself trying to end its longest war.

Afghanistan to miss October 19 deadline for presidential poll results: Report

Despite pulling off a safer presidential election than expected, Afghanistan looks headed for a prolonged period of political uncertainty, with the two front-runners claiming victory before ballots are tallied and signalling they would not accept defeat.

The situation echoes 2014, when candidates Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah alleged massive fraud by each other, forcing the United States to broker an awkward power-sharing arrangement that made Ghani president. Both men, front-runners again, say they would not accept a similar arrangement this time.

At the same time, Taliban insurgents rule more of the country than at any time since they were ousted from power nearly two decades ago, and have refused to accept the legitimacy of what they call a puppet US-backed government.

The unity government between the two candidates holds power until the winner is selected and takes office.

Results are expected on October&nbsp;19. If neither man wins over half the votes, a runoff would take place.

"There is a serious risk of an extended political crisis and divisive battle over the outcome, while the Taliban remain effectively unified," said Colin Cookman, a program officer with the US Institute of Peace, who has analysed Afghan politics since 2008.

Petr Stepanek, ambassador of the Czech Republic to Afghanistan, said the second round of voting possibly would not be held until spring, prolonging the uncertainty.

"The election commission can say, 'the weather is bad' and postpone it for a couple of months," Stepanek said. "Then we will have a weak government. A lame duck."

About 4,500 complaints have been filed since the September 28 election, providing possible ammunition for the loser to reject the results. The Independent Election Commission said on Sunday that some biometric verification machines were lost.

Turnout was an estimated 2.6 million votes, about one-quarter of eligible voters, following threats by the Taliban against voting stations.

Negotiations about withdrawing US troops in exchange for Taliban security guarantees broke down in September, although the two sides held exploratory talks in Islamabad last week.

The next step would be negotiations between the Taliban and Afghan government about a ceasefire and the Taliban's future role. The militant group has so far rejected any talks with the government.

Little to complain about

The Ghani camp has dismissed fears of a prolonged political stalemate.

This election included more checks and balances than ever to prevent fraud, leaving Abdullah little to complain about if he loses, said Daoud Sultanzoy, a senior Ghani campaign leader.

He said he believes Ghani dominated Afghanistan's cities and eroded Abdullah's support in northern areas, giving him a comfortable first-ballot win.

"The process is the most transparent we've ever used," Sultanzoy said. "Somebody has to put (Abdullah) in his place. Enough is enough."

Asked if Ghani would accept an Abdullah victory, Sultanzoy said that possibility was "far-fetched."

Abdullah is equally certain that his coalition of ethnic Hazaras, Tajiks, Uzbeks and some Pashtuns has made him a winner, said his spokesman, Mujib Rahman Rahimi.

However, the Abdullah camp is concerned about numerous irregularities, such as improbably high turnouts in insecure areas. Abdullah would accept defeat if the election is clean and only biometrically verified votes are counted, Rahimi said, adding that he has confidence in the commission.

But Abdullah will not accept a tainted vote, he said.

"He commands the real power in Afghanistan," Rahimi said. "If he comes out 'no' (to the result) the country will collapse. We should not go that direction, that is our hope."

Diplomats, speaking anonymously because of the sensitivity of the situation, said the more confusion that overhangs the Afghan government, the easier it will be for the Taliban to fill the vacuum. Recent foreign visits by the Taliban may help legitimize the group, they say.

In Islamabad last week, Taliban members hugged Pakistan's foreign minister and exchanged gifts before the cameras. The Taliban - which calls itself the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan - then raised issues that are the usual domain of government, such as the plight of Afghan refugees in Pakistan.

The visits are "normal political activities" planned long ago, and are no attempt to fill a leadership vacuum, said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid.

He added that the political uncertainty in Kabul is of no concern since the Taliban considers the election illegitimate.

Despite pulling off a safer presidential election than expected, Afghanistan looks headed for a prolonged period of political uncertainty, with the two front-runners claiming victory before ballots are tallied and signalling they would not accept defeat.

Despite pulling off a safer presidential election than expected, Afghanistan looks headed for a prolonged period of political uncertainty, with the two front-runners claiming victory before ballots are tallied and signalling they would not accept defeat. The situation echoes 2014, when candidates Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah alleged massive fraud by each other, forcing the United States to broker an awkward power-sharing arrangement that made Ghani president. Both men, front-runners again, say they would not accept a similar arrangement this time. At the same time, Taliban insurgents rule more of the country than at any time since they were ousted from power nearly two decades ago, and have refused to accept the legitimacy of what they call a puppet US-backed government. The unity government between the two candidates holds power until the winner is selected and takes office. Results are expected on October 19. If neither man wins over half the votes, a runoff would take place. "There is a serious risk of an extended political crisis and divisive battle over the outcome, while the Taliban remain effectively unified," said Colin Cookman, a program officer with the US Institute of Peace, who has analysed Afghan politics since 2008. Petr Stepanek, ambassador of the Czech Republic to Afghanistan, said the second round of voting possibly would not be held until spring, prolonging the uncertainty. "The election commission can say, 'the weather is bad' and postpone it for a couple of months," Stepanek said. "Then we will have a weak government. A lame duck." About 4,500 complaints have been filed since the September 28 election, providing possible ammunition for the loser to reject the results. The Independent Election Commission said on Sunday that some biometric verification machines were lost. Turnout was an estimated 2.6 million votes, about one-quarter of eligible voters, following threats by the Taliban against voting stations. Negotiations about withdrawing US troops in exchange for Taliban security guarantees broke down in September, although the two sides held exploratory talks in Islamabad last week. The next step would be negotiations between the Taliban and Afghan government about a ceasefire and the Taliban's future role. The militant group has so far rejected any talks with the government. Little to complain about The Ghani camp has dismissed fears of a prolonged political stalemate. This election included more checks and balances than ever to prevent fraud, leaving Abdullah little to complain about if he loses, said Daoud Sultanzoy, a senior Ghani campaign leader. He said he believes Ghani dominated Afghanistan's cities and eroded Abdullah's support in northern areas, giving him a comfortable first-ballot win. "The process is the most transparent we've ever used," Sultanzoy said. "Somebody has to put (Abdullah) in his place. Enough is enough." Asked if Ghani would accept an Abdullah victory, Sultanzoy said that possibility was "far-fetched." Abdullah is equally certain that his coalition of ethnic Hazaras, Tajiks, Uzbeks and some Pashtuns has made him a winner, said his spokesman, Mujib Rahman Rahimi. However, the Abdullah camp is concerned about numerous irregularities, such as improbably high turnouts in insecure areas. Abdullah would accept defeat if the election is clean and only biometrically verified votes are counted, Rahimi said, adding that he has confidence in the commission. But Abdullah will not accept a tainted vote, he said. "He commands the real power in Afghanistan," Rahimi said. "If he comes out 'no' (to the result) the country will collapse. We should not go that direction, that is our hope." Diplomats, speaking anonymously because of the sensitivity of the situation, said the more confusion that overhangs the Afghan government, the easier it will be for the Taliban to fill the vacuum. Recent foreign visits by the Taliban may help legitimize the group, they say. In Islamabad last week, Taliban members hugged Pakistan's foreign minister and exchanged gifts before the cameras. The Taliban - which calls itself the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan - then raised issues that are the usual domain of government, such as the plight of Afghan refugees in Pakistan. The visits are "normal political activities" planned long ago, and are no attempt to fill a leadership vacuum, said Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. He added that the political uncertainty in Kabul is of no concern since the Taliban considers the election illegitimate.

Afghanistan braces for political uncertainty in election's wake

Political Crisis Continues In Afghanistan After Elections Afghanistan voted last week. The results are yet to be released, but both incumbent President Ashraf Ghani and the country's chief executive Abdullah Abdullah have claimed victory already. This report explores the political chaos in Afghanistan.

Gravitas: Afghanistan Elections: Both Camps Claim Victory

One of the front-runners for the Afghan presidency, the country's chief executive, Abdullah Abdullah, declared himself the winner of elections for the post on Monday (September 30) - as has his chief rival, incumbent Ashraf Ghani.

Afghanistan : Abdullah Abdullah claims victory in presidential poll

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