The representatives from the United States and Afghanistan will sign the peace deal today. The peace agreement will pave the way for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan. American soldiers have been in the country fighting against the Taliban for the last 18 years. India has also been invited by the Qatar government to the peace deal ceremony.

Afghan Peace deal: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reaches Doha

US, Taliban to sign deal aimed at bringing peace to Afghanistan

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in Qatar's capital city, Doha on Saturday to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-future-in-the-balance-as-us-taliban-set-to-sign-historic-peace-deal-283420">witness the signing of a historic deal with Taliban insurgents</a> in an effort to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan.

Pompeo arrived on a flight from Washington and was due to hold a meeting with the Qatari Emir before attending the signing ceremony.

The deal paves the way for the United States to gradually withdraw its troops from Afghanistan. But there are doubts over whether it will lead to a lasting peace as it merely paves the way for talks between the Afghan sides that many expect could be much more complicated.

Hours before the deal, the Taliban ordered all its fighters in Afghanistan "to refrain from any kind of attack ... for the happiness of the nation."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-india-changed-its-gameplan-on-tackling-the-taliban-in-afghanistan-283344">How India changed its gameplan on tackling the Taliban in Afghanistan</a>

"The biggest thing is that we hope the US remain committed to their promises during the negotiation and peace deal," said Zabiullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the hardline Islamist group.

Mujahid said it was "irritating and provocative" that foreign military aircraft continued to fly over Taliban territory, but militia fighters were following the order to stand-down.

'Monumental Day'

Millions of Afghans are hoping that the deal could pave the way for an end to America's longest war, fought in their country.

The war, which has killed tens of thousands of people, began when the United States launched attacks on Afghanistan just weeks after the September&nbsp;11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington by the Afghanistan-based al Qaeda militant group.

Watch: US-Taliban peace deal would lead to complete withdrawal of US troops?

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Washington accused the Taliban of harbouring al Qaeda and its leader Osama bin Laden, and with its allies ousted the group from power. But the Taliban has remained a potent force and currently controls about 40% of Afghan territory.

For U.S President Donald Trump, the deal represents a chance to make good on his promise to bring US troops home. But security experts have also called it a foreign policy gamble that would give the Taliban international legitimacy.

"Today is a monumental day for Afghanistan," the US&nbsp;Embassy in Kabul said on Twitter. "It is about making peace and crafting a common brighter future. We stand with Afghanistan."

A 31-member Taliban delegation was in Qatar to oversee the signing by their political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar.

Foreign ministers and bureaucrats from Pakistan, Indonesia, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan arrived at the venue ahead of the signing ceremony, slated to take place at the Sheraton hotel in Doha.

Trump said in a statement on Friday said the deal will pave way for US&nbsp;troop numbers to drop to 8,600 from about 13,000 in the weeks following the deal.

Further reductions of Western forces will hinge on the Taliban adhering to a "reduction in violence" pledge, a condition that will be assessed by the United States.

'My country deserves it'

For millions of Afghans, the deal represents some hope for an end to years of bloodshed.

"Peace is extremely simple and my country deserves it. Today is the day when maybe we will see a positive change," said Javed Hassan, 38, a school teacher living on the outskirts of Afghan capital, Kabul.

Hassan's children were killed in a bomb blast carried out by the Taliban in 2018. Since then, he has been writing letters to world leaders urging them to end the Afghan war.

But prospects for peace remain uncertain given the next step is reaching agreement with the Afghan government.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper arrived in Kabul on Saturday, in a move officials and experts said was aimed at reassuring the Afghan government about the United States' commitment to the country.

Under the deal, the Taliban wants 5,000 fighters to be released from Afghan-run jails, but it is not clear whether the Afghan government will agree.

There are also questions about whether Taliban fighters loyal to hardline Islamist splinter groups will be willing to adhere to the reduction in violence agreement.

Some senior commanders of the Taliban who arrived in Doha for the signing said they will ensure that the US and Afghan governments accept all the conditions laid down by the group, according to Afghan defence officials.

Sources in the Taliban earlier this month said they were prepared to launch a spring offensive and had recruited more than 6,000 fighters and suicide bombers if the agreement collapses.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in Qatar's capital city, Doha on Saturday to witness the signing of a historic deal with Taliban insurgents in an effort to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in Qatar's capital city, Doha on Saturday to witness the signing of a historic deal with Taliban insurgents in an effort to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan. Pompeo arrived on a flight from Washington and was due to hold a meeting with the Qatari Emir before attending the signing ceremony. The deal paves the way for the United States to gradually withdraw its troops from Afghanistan. But there are doubts over whether it will lead to a lasting peace as it merely paves the way for talks between the Afghan sides that many expect could be much more complicated. Hours before the deal, the Taliban ordered all its fighters in Afghanistan "to refrain from any kind of attack ... for the happiness of the nation." Also read: How India changed its gameplan on tackling the Taliban in Afghanistan "The biggest thing is that we hope the US remain committed to their promises during the negotiation and peace deal," said Zabiullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the hardline Islamist group. Mujahid said it was "irritating and provocative" that foreign military aircraft continued to fly over Taliban territory, but militia fighters were following the order to stand-down. 'Monumental Day' Millions of Afghans are hoping that the deal could pave the way for an end to America's longest war, fought in their country. The war, which has killed tens of thousands of people, began when the United States launched attacks on Afghanistan just weeks after the September 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington by the Afghanistan-based al Qaeda militant group. Watch: US-Taliban peace deal would lead to complete withdrawal of US troops? × Washington accused the Taliban of harbouring al Qaeda and its leader Osama bin Laden, and with its allies ousted the group from power. But the Taliban has remained a potent force and currently controls about 40% of Afghan territory. For U.S President Donald Trump, the deal represents a chance to make good on his promise to bring US troops home. But security experts have also called it a foreign policy gamble that would give the Taliban international legitimacy. "Today is a monumental day for Afghanistan," the US Embassy in Kabul said on Twitter. "It is about making peace and crafting a common brighter future. We stand with Afghanistan." A 31-member Taliban delegation was in Qatar to oversee the signing by their political chief Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. Foreign ministers and bureaucrats from Pakistan, Indonesia, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan arrived at the venue ahead of the signing ceremony, slated to take place at the Sheraton hotel in Doha. Trump said in a statement on Friday said the deal will pave way for US troop numbers to drop to 8,600 from about 13,000 in the weeks following the deal. Further reductions of Western forces will hinge on the Taliban adhering to a "reduction in violence" pledge, a condition that will be assessed by the United States. 'My country deserves it' For millions of Afghans, the deal represents some hope for an end to years of bloodshed. "Peace is extremely simple and my country deserves it. Today is the day when maybe we will see a positive change," said Javed Hassan, 38, a school teacher living on the outskirts of Afghan capital, Kabul. Hassan's children were killed in a bomb blast carried out by the Taliban in 2018. Since then, he has been writing letters to world leaders urging them to end the Afghan war. But prospects for peace remain uncertain given the next step is reaching agreement with the Afghan government. US Defense Secretary Mark Esper arrived in Kabul on Saturday, in a move officials and experts said was aimed at reassuring the Afghan government about the United States' commitment to the country. Under the deal, the Taliban wants 5,000 fighters to be released from Afghan-run jails, but it is not clear whether the Afghan government will agree. There are also questions about whether Taliban fighters loyal to hardline Islamist splinter groups will be willing to adhere to the reduction in violence agreement. Some senior commanders of the Taliban who arrived in Doha for the signing said they will ensure that the US and Afghan governments accept all the conditions laid down by the group, according to Afghan defence officials. Sources in the Taliban earlier this month said they were prepared to launch a spring offensive and had recruited more than 6,000 fighters and suicide bombers if the agreement collapses.

US-Taliban set to sign troop withdrawal deal as Pompeo lands in Doha

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a congratulatory letter to Ashraf Ghani on his re-election as the Afghanistan President A major deal will be signed in Doha. The representatives from the United States and Afghanistan will sign the peace deal today. The peace agreement will pave the way for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan. American soldiers have been in the country fighting against the Taliban for the last 18 years.

What role India has in US-Taliban peace deal?

US-Taliban peace deal would lead to complete withdrawal of US troops?

A major deal will be signed in Doha. The representatives from the United States and Afghanistan will sign the peace deal today. The peace agreement will pave the way for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan. American soldiers have been in the country fighting against the Taliban for the last 18 years.

Who will be most affected by US-Taliban peace deal?

The US-Taliban peace deal is being seen as a step towards restoring peace. But the people in Afghanistan are skeptical. This report tells you more.

Gravitas: US-Taliban Peace deal, Afghans are skeptical

In November 2018 Indian representatives were at the Afgan peace conference. The Indian government had sent two retired diplomats the former envoy to Kabul.

WION Fineprint: Will the Taliban enter into politics?

The US-Taliban peace deal is expected to be signed on February 29 in Doha. Both India and Pakistan are going to be part of the final talks. Pakistani PM Imran Khan is already in Qatar ahead of the deal. Watch ground report:

India To Witness US-Taliban Peace Deal

The US-Taliban peace deal is expected to be signed on February 29 in Doha. Both India and Pakistan are going to be part of the final talks. Whatever is happening in Doha will have a significant impact in Kabul, Islamabad and New Delhi. Watch report:

What role will India and Pakistan play in US-Afghan peace talks

The US Taliban peace deal will be signed in Doha tomorrow and both India and Pakistan are going to be part of the final talks. Watch WION ground report from Doha:

US-Taliban peace talks on Feb 29, India and Pakistan invited

India invited to witness US-Taliban peace deal in Doha

Pakistan PM Imran Khan met Qatar's Emir ahead of US-Taliban peace deal.Imran khan visits Doha.

Imran Khan meets Qatar's Emir before US-Taliban Peace Deal

Liverpool manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpool-manager-klopp-extends-contract-to-2024-268150">Jurgen Klopp</a> is looking forward to a "really tough game" in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-geroginio-wijnaldum-to-miss-club-world-cup-semi-final-268882">Club World Cup</a> final against Flamengo after Roberto Firmino's injury-time goal gave the Anfield side a hard-fought 2-1 win over Monterrey of Mexico on Wednesday.

Firmino came off the bench to turn in a cross from fellow substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 91st minute at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha after Naby Keita's early opener for a weakened Liverpool side had swiftly been cancelled out by Argentine striker Rogelio Funes Mori.

Having taken time out from their seemingly relentless march towards the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-stage-comeback-to-sink-west-ham-and-end-winless-run-267402">Premier League</a> title to travel to Qatar, Liverpool will be relieved at coming through this test, and they remain on course to win this competition for the first time.

However, they must now beat a Flamengo side who have won the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian title in the last month under Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, and who will have had an extra day to prepare for the final after defeating Saudi club Al-Hilal 3-1 on Tuesday.

"Tough game, really tough game," said Klopp when asked about the prospect of facing Flamengo in what will be a repeat of the 1981 Intercontinental Cup final, when a Brazilian team captained by Zico beat Bob Paisley's European Cup holders 3-0 in Tokyo.

"Flamengo's season is over, they are here with a full squad, but we just have to recover as quickly as possible and then make ourselves ready."

He will hope to have Virgil van Dijk back fit for the final after the inspirational Dutch centre-back sat out the Monterrey game due to illness, leaving skipper Jordan Henderson to partner Joe Gomez in defence.

"It was an easy decision because he couldn't train yesterday - he was on the pitch for a couple of minutes until the media left, and then unfortunately he had to leave as well," Klopp said about Van Dijk, who has played in every Premier League and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Champions League</a> game this season. "We will see how quick he can recover."

'Only possible the hard way'&nbsp;

In addition, Klopp chose to leave Sadio Mane on the bench at kick-off along with Firmino and Alexander-Arnold, instead of handing starts to the likes of Adam Lallana, Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi.

"It was only possible the hard way," said Klopp of the way in which his side won, with Firmino's late goal coming after goalkeeper Alisson made a string of key saves to stop Monterrey from going in front.

"We had problems before the game, we knew we would have some problems in the game, but I really think the boys did exceptionally well."

At such a busy stage in the season, Klopp also admitted his relief when the winning goal went in, saying: "I was actually afraid of extra time to be honest so I was more than happy when Bobby scored that goal."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Liverpool</a> got off to a flying start and were rewarded with the opening goal in the 12th minute.

Salah, spurred on by the backing of adoring fans in an official attendance of over 45,000, produced a stunning pass to release Keita, the midfielder running into the box and lashing a first-time shot past goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero.

However, Monterrey's response was swift, as the CONCACAF Champions League winners drew level within two minutes when Funes Mori -- the brother of former Everton defender Ramiro - converted the rebound after Alisson saved from Jesus Gallardo.

The Mexicans grew in confidence after that, with captain Dorlan Pabon, the Colombian international, testing Alisson before the interval and again from a free-kick after the break.

Alisson also saved well from Funes Mori before Mane, Alexander-Arnold and Firmino all entered the fray in the closing stages.&nbsp;

Clearly determined to avoid a draining extra half-hour, Klopp's game plan paid off as Firmino pounced in the 91st minute.

"The team played really well and gave everything," said Monterrey coach Antonio Mohamed.&nbsp;

"Overall I thought we had the clearest chances and their goalkeeper made four or five big saves. It would have been fairer had the game gone to extra time."&nbsp;

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is looking forward to a "really tough game" in the Club World Cup final against Flamengo after Roberto Firmino's injury-time goal gave the Anfield side a hard-fought 2-1 win over Monterrey of Mexico on Wednesday.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is looking forward to a "really tough game" in the Club World Cup final against Flamengo after Roberto Firmino's injury-time goal gave the Anfield side a hard-fought 2-1 win over Monterrey of Mexico on Wednesday. Firmino came off the bench to turn in a cross from fellow substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 91st minute at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha after Naby Keita's early opener for a weakened Liverpool side had swiftly been cancelled out by Argentine striker Rogelio Funes Mori. Having taken time out from their seemingly relentless march towards the Premier League title to travel to Qatar, Liverpool will be relieved at coming through this test, and they remain on course to win this competition for the first time. However, they must now beat a Flamengo side who have won the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian title in the last month under Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, and who will have had an extra day to prepare for the final after defeating Saudi club Al-Hilal 3-1 on Tuesday. "Tough game, really tough game," said Klopp when asked about the prospect of facing Flamengo in what will be a repeat of the 1981 Intercontinental Cup final, when a Brazilian team captained by Zico beat Bob Paisley's European Cup holders 3-0 in Tokyo. "Flamengo's season is over, they are here with a full squad, but we just have to recover as quickly as possible and then make ourselves ready." He will hope to have Virgil van Dijk back fit for the final after the inspirational Dutch centre-back sat out the Monterrey game due to illness, leaving skipper Jordan Henderson to partner Joe Gomez in defence. "It was an easy decision because he couldn't train yesterday - he was on the pitch for a couple of minutes until the media left, and then unfortunately he had to leave as well," Klopp said about Van Dijk, who has played in every Premier League and Champions League game this season. "We will see how quick he can recover." 'Only possible the hard way' In addition, Klopp chose to leave Sadio Mane on the bench at kick-off along with Firmino and Alexander-Arnold, instead of handing starts to the likes of Adam Lallana, Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi. "It was only possible the hard way," said Klopp of the way in which his side won, with Firmino's late goal coming after goalkeeper Alisson made a string of key saves to stop Monterrey from going in front. "We had problems before the game, we knew we would have some problems in the game, but I really think the boys did exceptionally well." At such a busy stage in the season, Klopp also admitted his relief when the winning goal went in, saying: "I was actually afraid of extra time to be honest so I was more than happy when Bobby scored that goal." Liverpool got off to a flying start and were rewarded with the opening goal in the 12th minute. Salah, spurred on by the backing of adoring fans in an official attendance of over 45,000, produced a stunning pass to release Keita, the midfielder running into the box and lashing a first-time shot past goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero. However, Monterrey's response was swift, as the CONCACAF Champions League winners drew level within two minutes when Funes Mori -- the brother of former Everton defender Ramiro - converted the rebound after Alisson saved from Jesus Gallardo. The Mexicans grew in confidence after that, with captain Dorlan Pabon, the Colombian international, testing Alisson before the interval and again from a free-kick after the break. Alisson also saved well from Funes Mori before Mane, Alexander-Arnold and Firmino all entered the fray in the closing stages. Clearly determined to avoid a draining extra half-hour, Klopp's game plan paid off as Firmino pounced in the 91st minute. "The team played really well and gave everything," said Monterrey coach Antonio Mohamed. "Overall I thought we had the clearest chances and their goalkeeper made four or five big saves. It would have been fairer had the game gone to extra time."

Liverpool set sights on Flamengo as Firmino takes Reds into Club World Cup final

Wijnaldum&nbsp;was injured in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Liverpool</a>'s&nbsp;2-0 Premier League win over Watford on Saturday but travelled with the squad to Qatar. Klopp said that the 29-year-old's problem was not as serious as initially feared but that they would monitor how it responded to treatment over the coming days.

"Gini was not as serious as we thought in the first moment, so he's here doing the first recovery and then we have stuff what is necessary," Klopp told reporters on Tuesday.

"We'll see day by day, but for tomorrow night (Wednesday) he's not involved."

Wijnaldum's fellow Dutch international Virgil van Dijk also&nbsp;missed training in Doha on Monday but Klopp said the defender was not carrying any injury.

"Virgil is fine. We had to do different stuff for recovery for different people, that was the reason why he wasn't involved yesterday in the session," Klopp added.

"All the rest of the squad is fine."

European champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-enjoy-derby-demolition-as-it-sets-new-club-record-leicester-still-chasing-266306">Liverpool</a> are looking to capture their maiden&nbsp;Club&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;trophy.

The winner of Wednesday's clash at the Khalifa International Stadium will take on Copa Libertadores champions Flamengo in Saturday's&nbsp;final.

With Premier League leaders Liverpool playing in Doha this week, they fielded a starting lineup consisting mainly of reserves and youth team players for Tuesday's League&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;semi-final&nbsp;against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Aston Villa</a>.

They acquitted themselves well against a more experienced Villa side but were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">beaten 5-0</a>.

Wijnaldum was injured in Liverpool's 2-0 Premier League win over Watford on Saturday but travelled with the squad to Qatar. Klopp said that the 29-year-old's problem was not as serious as initially feared but that they would monitor how it responded to treatment over the coming days.

Wijnaldum was injured in Liverpool's 2-0 Premier League win over Watford on Saturday but travelled with the squad to Qatar. Klopp said that the 29-year-old's problem was not as serious as initially feared but that they would monitor how it responded to treatment over the coming days. "Gini was not as serious as we thought in the first moment, so he's here doing the first recovery and then we have stuff what is necessary," Klopp told reporters on Tuesday. "We'll see day by day, but for tomorrow night (Wednesday) he's not involved." Wijnaldum's fellow Dutch international Virgil van Dijk also missed training in Doha on Monday but Klopp said the defender was not carrying any injury. "Virgil is fine. We had to do different stuff for recovery for different people, that was the reason why he wasn't involved yesterday in the session," Klopp added. "All the rest of the squad is fine." European champions Liverpool are looking to capture their maiden Club World Cup trophy. The winner of Wednesday's clash at the Khalifa International Stadium will take on Copa Libertadores champions Flamengo in Saturday's final. With Premier League leaders Liverpool playing in Doha this week, they fielded a starting lineup consisting mainly of reserves and youth team players for Tuesday's League Cup semi-final against Aston Villa. They acquitted themselves well against a more experienced Villa side but were beaten 5-0.

Liverpool's Geroginio Wijnaldum to miss Club World Cup semi-final

The top US military officer said on Wednesday it was too early to talk about the future of US counterterrorism forces in Afghanistan, as US and Taliban forces appear close to an agreement to end the 18-year war.

Negotiations over how to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan have been held in Doha, capital of Qatar, since late last year. The ninth round of talks began last week.

"I am not using the withdrawal word right now," Marine General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters at the Pentagon.

"I'm using: We're going to make sure that Afghanistan is not a sanctuary and we're going to try to have an effort to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan," he added.

The Taliban said on Wednesday it was close to an agreement with US officials on a deal that would see US forces withdraw from Afghanistan in exchange for a Taliban promise that the country would not become a haven for international militants.

"I honestly think it's premature to talk about what our counterterrorism presence in Afghanistan may or may not be without a better appreciation for what will the conditions (be)," Dunford said.

The United States went to war in Afghanistan in response to September 11, 2001, attacks on New York and the Pentagon, seeking to oust the Taliban militants harbouring al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, who led plans to carry out the attacks. About 2,400 US forces have been killed in the conflict.

Some 14,000 US troops remain in Afghanistan, among whom about 5,000 are dedicated to counter-insurgency operations.

Dunford said that in the current security environment, local Afghan security forces needed US support to deal with the violence.

"If an agreement happens in the future, if the security environment changes, then obviously our posture may adjust," Dunford said.

The Taliban now controls more territory than it has since 2001 and the war has ground to a stalemate, with casualties rising among civilians as well as combatants. 
&nbsp;

The top US military officer said on Wednesday it was too early to talk about the future of US counterterrorism forces in Afghanistan, as US and Taliban forces appear close to an agreement to end the 18-year war.

The top US military officer said on Wednesday it was too early to talk about the future of US counterterrorism forces in Afghanistan, as US and Taliban forces appear close to an agreement to end the 18-year war. Negotiations over how to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan have been held in Doha, capital of Qatar, since late last year. The ninth round of talks began last week. "I am not using the withdrawal word right now," Marine General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters at the Pentagon. "I'm using: We're going to make sure that Afghanistan is not a sanctuary and we're going to try to have an effort to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan," he added. The Taliban said on Wednesday it was close to an agreement with US officials on a deal that would see US forces withdraw from Afghanistan in exchange for a Taliban promise that the country would not become a haven for international militants. "I honestly think it's premature to talk about what our counterterrorism presence in Afghanistan may or may not be without a better appreciation for what will the conditions (be)," Dunford said. The United States went to war in Afghanistan in response to September 11, 2001, attacks on New York and the Pentagon, seeking to oust the Taliban militants harbouring al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, who led plans to carry out the attacks. About 2,400 US forces have been killed in the conflict. Some 14,000 US troops remain in Afghanistan, among whom about 5,000 are dedicated to counter-insurgency operations. Dunford said that in the current security environment, local Afghan security forces needed US support to deal with the violence. "If an agreement happens in the future, if the security environment changes, then obviously our posture may adjust," Dunford said. The Taliban now controls more territory than it has since 2001 and the war has ground to a stalemate, with casualties rising among civilians as well as combatants.

Too early to talk about future of counterterrorism forces in Afghanistan: US

US and Taliban representatives held negotiations in Doha on Sunday, an American source close to the process said, as potentially decisive talks to enable Washington to drawdown its military in Afghanistan stretched into the evening.&nbsp;

"Talks resumed late morning today," the US source said.

The third day of the two sides' ninth round of dialogue, which continued until after 1900 GMT an AFP correspondent said, was described as promising by a Taliban source.

The insurgent group had earlier said that it was finalising technical points of an agreement with Washington at the talks being held in a luxury members’ club in the Qatari capital Doha.

"The agreement will be completed after we agree on these points," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen told AFP on Saturday.

Any deal would be announced before the media as well as representatives from neighbouring countries and China, Russia, and the United Nations, he added.

The United States, which invaded Afghanistan and toppled the Taliban from power in 2001 after the September 11 attacks, wants to withdraw thousands of troops but only in return for the group renouncing Al-Qaeda and curbing attacks.

Washington is hoping to strike an agreement with the Taliban by September 1 -- ahead of Afghan polls due the same month, and US presidential polls next year.

The Doha talks are being held against a backdrop of persistent violence in Afghanistan.

The Taliban claimed on Saturday to have killed seven members of the US military in an attack on a convoy near Bagram airfield north of Kabul. American officials dismissed the claims as “lies”.

On Wednesday, two US soldiers were killed by small arms fire in Faryab province in northern Afghanistan, the Pentagon said.

Shaheen, the Taliban spokesman, had said the deaths should have a "positive" impact on the talks in Doha.

US and Taliban representatives held negotiations in Doha on Sunday, an American source close to the process said, as potentially decisive talks to enable Washington to drawdown its military in Afghanistan stretched into the evening.

US and Taliban representatives held negotiations in Doha on Sunday, an American source close to the process said, as potentially decisive talks to enable Washington to drawdown its military in Afghanistan stretched into the evening. "Talks resumed late morning today," the US source said. The third day of the two sides' ninth round of dialogue, which continued until after 1900 GMT an AFP correspondent said, was described as promising by a Taliban source. The insurgent group had earlier said that it was finalising technical points of an agreement with Washington at the talks being held in a luxury members’ club in the Qatari capital Doha. "The agreement will be completed after we agree on these points," Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen told AFP on Saturday. Any deal would be announced before the media as well as representatives from neighbouring countries and China, Russia, and the United Nations, he added. The United States, which invaded Afghanistan and toppled the Taliban from power in 2001 after the September 11 attacks, wants to withdraw thousands of troops but only in return for the group renouncing Al-Qaeda and curbing attacks. Washington is hoping to strike an agreement with the Taliban by September 1 -- ahead of Afghan polls due the same month, and US presidential polls next year. The Doha talks are being held against a backdrop of persistent violence in Afghanistan. The Taliban claimed on Saturday to have killed seven members of the US military in an attack on a convoy near Bagram airfield north of Kabul. American officials dismissed the claims as “lies”. On Wednesday, two US soldiers were killed by small arms fire in Faryab province in northern Afghanistan, the Pentagon said. Shaheen, the Taliban spokesman, had said the deaths should have a "positive" impact on the talks in Doha.

US, Taliban push for peace at Doha talks

US-Taliban has resumed a fresh round of US-Taliban peace talks in Doha. The US Special representative, Zalmay Khalilzad arrived in Doha on Friday night for the 8th round of US-Taliban peace talks. Watch this video to know more.

8th round of US-Taliban peace talks

US-Taliban is set to resume peace talks on Afghanistan. The US Special representative, Zalmay Khalilzad has arrived in Doha for the 8th round of US-Taliban peace talks. Watch this video to know more.

U.S-Taliban peace talks: Trump flags progress

A fresh round of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trump-touts-afghan-peace-progress-but-warns-can-kill-millions-240335">US-Taliban peace talks</a> began in Qatar's capital&nbsp;Doha&nbsp;on Saturday, officials said, describing it to be the "most crucial" phase of negotiations to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan.

Senior officials privy to the talks said a peace agreement could be expected at the end of the eighth round of talks, possibly before August 13, and would enable foreign forces to be withdrawn from the war-torn country.

Zalmay Khalilzad, the US peace envoy for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/young-afghans-wary-as-possible-us-taliban-deal-nears-240301">Afghanistan</a> who has held a series of meetings with Taliban leaders since last year, reached&nbsp;Doha&nbsp;on Friday night.

"Just got to&nbsp;Doha&nbsp;to resume talks with the Taliban. We are pursuing a peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement," Khalilzad wrote on Twitter.

"A peace agreement that enables withdrawal. Our (US)&nbsp;presence in Afghanistan is conditions-based, and any withdrawal will be conditions-based," he said, adding the Taliban are signalling they would conclude an agreement.

"We are ready for a good agreement."

Two sources with knowledge of the talks said an agreement on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for security guarantees by the Taliban is expected before August 13

About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are now in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces.

The hardline Islamist Taliban group now controls more territory than at any point since the United States bombed them out of power in 2001.

Two Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen and Zabihullah Mujahid said a 19-member Taliban negotiation team will represent them in the&nbsp;Doha&nbsp;peace talks.

"The issue of forces withdrawal has prolonged the peace talks and delayed the deal," said a senior Taliban commander based in Afghanistan on conditions of anonymity.

"There was no way we would allow permanent stay of US forces in Afghanistan after signing a peace deal with them," he said, adding that Taliban will provide complete assurance that no foreign militant group will be allowed to use Afghanistan to launch attacks against the United States and its allies.

Leaders of the insurgent group have repeatedly stated that a ceasefire or talks with the Afghan government and civil society members will not take place until the United States announces a plan for foreign force withdrawal from Afghanistan.

US President Donald Trump wants combat forces reduced in Afghanistan by the next US presidential election in November 2020, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said last month.

Uncertainty

Fighting in Afghanistan has not subsided. More than 1,500 civilians were killed and injured in July, a record monthly toll this year, and the highest number documented in a month since May 2017, United Nations of Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said in a statement on Saturday.

Many Afghans fear a US troop withdrawal announcement will weaken their bargaining power with the hardline Islamist group, which aims to re-establish an Islamic emirate to replace an elected government it dismisses as puppets of foreign forces.

Women’s rights groups in particular worry about the fate of women and girls in the event of a return of the Taliban, who banned girls’ education and imposed severe restrictions on women’s rights to work outside the home.

The sense of uncertainty revolving around the peace talks has become a source of distress with many Afghans fearing a complete collapse of law and order if the United States fails to protect basic freedom guaranteed under the Afghan constitution.

In June, Pompeo said he hoped for a peace deal with the Taliban before September 1.

"The Americans are being hasty to sign the deal. Right now it feels like we will wake up one morning and find the Taliban government has been installed," said Mustafa Karimi, a shopkeeper in Kabul whose brother was killed last year by the Taliban during clashes with Afghan forces.

"Taliban often use Afghan civilians as human shields and now the US are also putting our lives at risk to exit out of Afghanistan," he said.

"We are doomed if the peace talks don't protect our basic rights and freedom."

A fresh round of US-Taliban peace talks began in Qatar's capital Doha on Saturday, officials said, describing it to be the "most crucial" phase of negotiations to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan.

A fresh round of US-Taliban peace talks began in Qatar's capital Doha on Saturday, officials said, describing it to be the "most crucial" phase of negotiations to end the 18-year war in Afghanistan. Senior officials privy to the talks said a peace agreement could be expected at the end of the eighth round of talks, possibly before August 13, and would enable foreign forces to be withdrawn from the war-torn country. Zalmay Khalilzad, the US peace envoy for Afghanistan who has held a series of meetings with Taliban leaders since last year, reached Doha on Friday night. "Just got to Doha to resume talks with the Taliban. We are pursuing a peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement," Khalilzad wrote on Twitter. "A peace agreement that enables withdrawal. Our (US) presence in Afghanistan is conditions-based, and any withdrawal will be conditions-based," he said, adding the Taliban are signalling they would conclude an agreement. "We are ready for a good agreement." Two sources with knowledge of the talks said an agreement on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for security guarantees by the Taliban is expected before August 13 About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are now in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. The hardline Islamist Taliban group now controls more territory than at any point since the United States bombed them out of power in 2001. Two Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen and Zabihullah Mujahid said a 19-member Taliban negotiation team will represent them in the Doha peace talks. "The issue of forces withdrawal has prolonged the peace talks and delayed the deal," said a senior Taliban commander based in Afghanistan on conditions of anonymity. "There was no way we would allow permanent stay of US forces in Afghanistan after signing a peace deal with them," he said, adding that Taliban will provide complete assurance that no foreign militant group will be allowed to use Afghanistan to launch attacks against the United States and its allies. Leaders of the insurgent group have repeatedly stated that a ceasefire or talks with the Afghan government and civil society members will not take place until the United States announces a plan for foreign force withdrawal from Afghanistan. US President Donald Trump wants combat forces reduced in Afghanistan by the next US presidential election in November 2020, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said last month. Uncertainty Fighting in Afghanistan has not subsided. More than 1,500 civilians were killed and injured in July, a record monthly toll this year, and the highest number documented in a month since May 2017, United Nations of Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said in a statement on Saturday. Many Afghans fear a US troop withdrawal announcement will weaken their bargaining power with the hardline Islamist group, which aims to re-establish an Islamic emirate to replace an elected government it dismisses as puppets of foreign forces. Women’s rights groups in particular worry about the fate of women and girls in the event of a return of the Taliban, who banned girls’ education and imposed severe restrictions on women’s rights to work outside the home. The sense of uncertainty revolving around the peace talks has become a source of distress with many Afghans fearing a complete collapse of law and order if the United States fails to protect basic freedom guaranteed under the Afghan constitution. In June, Pompeo said he hoped for a peace deal with the Taliban before September 1. "The Americans are being hasty to sign the deal. Right now it feels like we will wake up one morning and find the Taliban government has been installed," said Mustafa Karimi, a shopkeeper in Kabul whose brother was killed last year by the Taliban during clashes with Afghan forces. "Taliban often use Afghan civilians as human shields and now the US are also putting our lives at risk to exit out of Afghanistan," he said. "We are doomed if the peace talks don't protect our basic rights and freedom."

New round of US-Taliban talks open in Doha amid hope for peace deal

US-Taliban is set to resume peace talks on Afghanistan. The US Special representative, Zalmay Khalilzad has arrived in Doha for 8th round of US-Taliban peace talks. Watch this video to know more.

US Special representative arrives in Doha for US-Taliban peace talks

A fresh round of US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-taliban-us-violence-for-upper-hand-in-afghan-deal-237189">Taliban </a>peace talks will start in Qatar`s capital Doha on Saturday, officials said, describing it to be the "most crucial" phase of negotiations to end the 18 year war in Afghanistan.

Senior officials privy to the talks said a peace agreement could be expected at the end of the eighth round of talks and would enable foreign forces to be withdrawn from the war torn country.

Zalmay Khalilzad, the US peace envoy for Afghanistan who has held a series of meetings with Taliban leaders since last year, reached Doha on Friday night.

"Just got to Doha to resume talks with the Taliban. We are pursuing a peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement," Khalilzad wrote on Twitter.

"A peace agreement that enables withdrawal. Our (US) presence in Afghanistan is conditions based, and any withdrawal will be conditions based," he said, adding the Taliban are signalling they would conclude an agreement.

"We are ready for a good agreement."Two sources with knowledge of the talks said an agreement on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for security guarantees by the Taliban is expected before August 31.

About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are now in Afghanistan as part of a US led <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-blames-russia-for-inf-pact-demise-vows-measured-response-240181">NATO</a> mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces.&nbsp;

The hardline Islamist Taliban group now controls more territory than at any point since the United States bombed them out of power in 2001. 
&nbsp;

A fresh round of US Taliban peace talks will start in Qatar`s capital Doha on Saturday, officials said, describing it to be the "most crucial" phase of negotiations to end the 18 year war in Afghanistan.

A fresh round of US Taliban peace talks will start in Qatar`s capital Doha on Saturday, officials said, describing it to be the "most crucial" phase of negotiations to end the 18 year war in Afghanistan. Senior officials privy to the talks said a peace agreement could be expected at the end of the eighth round of talks and would enable foreign forces to be withdrawn from the war torn country. Zalmay Khalilzad, the US peace envoy for Afghanistan who has held a series of meetings with Taliban leaders since last year, reached Doha on Friday night. "Just got to Doha to resume talks with the Taliban. We are pursuing a peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement," Khalilzad wrote on Twitter. "A peace agreement that enables withdrawal. Our (US) presence in Afghanistan is conditions based, and any withdrawal will be conditions based," he said, adding the Taliban are signalling they would conclude an agreement. "We are ready for a good agreement."Two sources with knowledge of the talks said an agreement on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for security guarantees by the Taliban is expected before August 31. About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are now in Afghanistan as part of a US led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. The hardline Islamist Taliban group now controls more territory than at any point since the United States bombed them out of power in 2001.

Eighth round of US, Taliban peace talks to start in Doha August 3 - Officials

The US special representative for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad will be travelling to Doha to take part in the talks with Afghanistan. Watch this video to know more.

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad heads to Doha for talks

Former Olympic track and field athlete P T Usha has been nominated for the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Veteran Pin.

Usha in a tweet on Thursday conveyed her gratitude to the international governing body for athletics, saying, "<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/caster-semenya-accuses-iaaf-of-using-her-as-a-human-guinea-pig-228483&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjf0eC0_r3jAhVM8HMBHcBfC-4QFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0wSgXkncfrDpIVYWMvED9f">IAAF </a>Veteran Pin for the long and meritorious service to the cause of World Athletics! Thank you, IAAF for this incredible honour."

IAAF CEO Jon Ridgeon in a letter congratulated the athlete on her nomination.

"We are delighted that you have been nominated by your Area Association as a recipient of the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/iaaf-maintains-ban-on-russian-athletics-over-doping-scandal-202632&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjf0eC0_r3jAhVM8HMBHcBfC-4QFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1hak-x-5O8qOz6NMioLVSZ">IAAF </a>Veteran Pin for your long and meritorious service to the cause of World Athletics," the letter said.

Ridgeon invited Usha to attend the award ceremony which will take place on the opening ceremony of the 52nd IAAF Congress on September 24 in Doha.

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IAAF Veteran Pin for the long and meritorious service to the cause of World Athletics! 
Thank you IAAF for this incredible honour 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/QDILgouvgL">pic.twitter.com/QDILgouvgL</a>
— P.T. USHA (@PTUshaOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTUshaOfficial/status/1151665580065226753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It is my pleasure to invite you to participate in the award ceremony which will take place during the opening ceremony of the 52nd IAAF Congress at the Qatar National Convention Centre in Doha on the evening of September 24," the letter added.

Former Olympic track and field athlete P T Usha has been nominated for the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Veteran Pin. Usha in a tweet on Thursday conveyed her gratitude to the international governing body for athletics, saying, "IAAF Veteran Pin for the long and meritorious service to the cause of World Athletics!

Former Olympic track and field athlete P T Usha has been nominated for the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Veteran Pin. Usha in a tweet on Thursday conveyed her gratitude to the international governing body for athletics, saying, "IAAF Veteran Pin for the long and meritorious service to the cause of World Athletics! Thank you, IAAF for this incredible honour." IAAF CEO Jon Ridgeon in a letter congratulated the athlete on her nomination. "We are delighted that you have been nominated by your Area Association as a recipient of the IAAF Veteran Pin for your long and meritorious service to the cause of World Athletics," the letter said. Ridgeon invited Usha to attend the award ceremony which will take place on the opening ceremony of the 52nd IAAF Congress on September 24 in Doha. IAAF Veteran Pin for the long and meritorious service to the cause of World Athletics! Thank you IAAF for this incredible honour 🙏 pic.twitter.com/QDILgouvgL — P.T. USHA (@PTUshaOfficial) July 18, 2019 × "It is my pleasure to invite you to participate in the award ceremony which will take place during the opening ceremony of the 52nd IAAF Congress at the Qatar National Convention Centre in Doha on the evening of September 24," the letter added.

Former Olympian P T Usha nominated for IAAF Veteran Pin

Wary representatives of Afghan society met Taliban officials in Qatar on Monday for a second day of talks, with bloody insurgent attacks back home casting a pall over efforts to end Afghanistan's years of war. The Taliban on Sunday detonated a car bomb outside a government security compound in central Afghanistan killing 14 people and wounding 180, including scores of children. The attack came at the onset of a two-day meeting between Afghan citizens and the militants, meant to open the way to a peace process that should build on a hoped-for deal between the United States and the Taliban to end the longest ever U.S. war.

Taliban-Afghan agree to peace roadmap

An agreement by the Taliban to respect women's rights may seem like a breakthrough, but activists have questioned how the hardline Islamists -- notorious for stomping on freedoms -- will interpret the careful wording.

A historic meeting between Afghan representatives and the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-rivals-conclude-talks-with-taliban-on-roadmap-for-peace-234134&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiErNmi-afjAhVZ7HMBHS_2Bt4QFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw05NxYR43W-5iKLz3qab0Gm">Taliban</a> concluded late Monday with the longtime foes issuing a joint statement, including a reference to women's rights.

Participants at the Doha summit agreed that "assuring women rights in political, social, economic, educational, cultural affairs as per (and) within the Islamic framework of Islamic values", is vital for a durable peace.

The wording appears significant, as the Taliban are notorious for their longstanding subjugation of women that has included stonings, honor killings and a ban on education.

Observers have cautioned the pledge is open to broad interpretation, depending on who is defining the values of Islam.

"Our rights were completely respected in 'frames of Islamic values' under the (Taliban)," prominent women's rights activist Wazhma Frogh wrote sarcastically on Twitter.&nbsp;

"What an achievement of the Doha meeting. Going back!"

Manizha Qurban, an Afghan Facebook user, said "a few ignorant people" should not be left to interpret Islamic values.&nbsp;

Otherwise "they will become nightmares, especially for women. We should invite scholars from other Islamic countries to interpret the values for us," she wrote.

Further fuelling concern and confusion, only the English and Dari versions of the joint resolution include the reference to women's rights. One version being circulated in Pashto, spoken mainly by the Taliban, did not mention women's rights.

The joint statement came at the end of two days of talks between Afghan delegates, including a small group of women, and senior Taliban officials who are separately negotiating with the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghanistan-war-18-years-later-no-end-in-sight-us-taliban-talks-amid-more-attacks-234049&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiErNmi-afjAhVZ7HMBHS_2Bt4QFjAIegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2hC3sh0HKa-gxfVXoEvEUz">US</a> for a peace deal.

Such a deal would end America's 18-year involvement in Afghanistan in return for various guarantees, but the US insists the Taliban first hold comprehensive talks with Afghan stakeholders.

Lip service&nbsp;

The Taliban have paid increasing lip service to women's rights, but always include the caveat of defining these through Islam.

For instance, in areas of the country now under the Taliban -- the insurgents essentially control or influence about half of Afghanistan -- residents report modest changes in the militants' hardline stance.

In some areas, the Taliban do now allow girls to attend primary school, but they are still segregated by gender and the Taliban control the curriculum.

Nonetheless, reports of floggings and the stoning of women, as well as so-called honour killings -- where a girl is accused of bringing a home into disrepute -- remain common.

"Please please don't let the Taliban interpret Islamic principles for women again. Islamic principles for them mean beating and imprisoning women," Facebook user Samira Samim wrote.

Heather Barr, the acting co-director of the Women's Rights Division at Human Rights Watch, said it appeared positive that the words "women's rights" appeared in the statement.&nbsp;

"But this language about women's rights within the Islamic framework is classic Taliban rhetoric," she told AFP.

The Taliban "remain fundamentally opposed to gender equality. So the Afghan women at the negotiating table know that they're in for the fight of their life as they try to preserve the Afghan constitution's promise of gender equality," Barr said.

In May, Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said "we do not have any problem with" women's rights based on Islamic values.

"We have a different culture and different values. Our values, Afghan values, are different from that of Western values," he told AFP.

The joint statement also included a pledge to decrease violence in some cases and to bring civilian casualties to "zero".

However, the two-page document made no promise of a ceasefire and Afghanistan's war rages on.

An agreement by the Taliban to respect women's rights may seem like a breakthrough, but activists have questioned how the hardline Islamists -- notorious for stomping on freedoms -- will interpret the careful wording.

An agreement by the Taliban to respect women's rights may seem like a breakthrough, but activists have questioned how the hardline Islamists -- notorious for stomping on freedoms -- will interpret the careful wording. A historic meeting between Afghan representatives and the Taliban concluded late Monday with the longtime foes issuing a joint statement, including a reference to women's rights. Participants at the Doha summit agreed that "assuring women rights in political, social, economic, educational, cultural affairs as per (and) within the Islamic framework of Islamic values", is vital for a durable peace. The wording appears significant, as the Taliban are notorious for their longstanding subjugation of women that has included stonings, honor killings and a ban on education. Observers have cautioned the pledge is open to broad interpretation, depending on who is defining the values of Islam. "Our rights were completely respected in 'frames of Islamic values' under the (Taliban)," prominent women's rights activist Wazhma Frogh wrote sarcastically on Twitter. "What an achievement of the Doha meeting. Going back!" Manizha Qurban, an Afghan Facebook user, said "a few ignorant people" should not be left to interpret Islamic values. Otherwise "they will become nightmares, especially for women. We should invite scholars from other Islamic countries to interpret the values for us," she wrote. Further fuelling concern and confusion, only the English and Dari versions of the joint resolution include the reference to women's rights. One version being circulated in Pashto, spoken mainly by the Taliban, did not mention women's rights. The joint statement came at the end of two days of talks between Afghan delegates, including a small group of women, and senior Taliban officials who are separately negotiating with the US for a peace deal. Such a deal would end America's 18-year involvement in Afghanistan in return for various guarantees, but the US insists the Taliban first hold comprehensive talks with Afghan stakeholders. Lip service The Taliban have paid increasing lip service to women's rights, but always include the caveat of defining these through Islam. For instance, in areas of the country now under the Taliban -- the insurgents essentially control or influence about half of Afghanistan -- residents report modest changes in the militants' hardline stance. In some areas, the Taliban do now allow girls to attend primary school, but they are still segregated by gender and the Taliban control the curriculum. Nonetheless, reports of floggings and the stoning of women, as well as so-called honour killings -- where a girl is accused of bringing a home into disrepute -- remain common. "Please please don't let the Taliban interpret Islamic principles for women again. Islamic principles for them mean beating and imprisoning women," Facebook user Samira Samim wrote. Heather Barr, the acting co-director of the Women's Rights Division at Human Rights Watch, said it appeared positive that the words "women's rights" appeared in the statement. "But this language about women's rights within the Islamic framework is classic Taliban rhetoric," she told AFP. The Taliban "remain fundamentally opposed to gender equality. So the Afghan women at the negotiating table know that they're in for the fight of their life as they try to preserve the Afghan constitution's promise of gender equality," Barr said. In May, Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen said "we do not have any problem with" women's rights based on Islamic values. "We have a different culture and different values. Our values, Afghan values, are different from that of Western values," he told AFP. The joint statement also included a pledge to decrease violence in some cases and to bring civilian casualties to "zero". However, the two-page document made no promise of a ceasefire and Afghanistan's war rages on.

Taliban assurance of 'women's rights' has big caveat

Rival Afghans will meet Sunday in Doha for a fresh round of talks mediated by Qatar and Germany, as the United States&nbsp;eyes peace with the Taliban within three months.

The first such encounter in Moscow was heralded as a breakthrough but many sensitive issues including women's rights, foreign military withdrawal, Al-Qaeda and power-sharing with the Taliban remain unresolved.

Two experts spoke to AFP about their expectations for the talks which follow a week of direct negotiations between the US and the Taliban also in Doha.

What will come of the two-day meeting?

"We can expect a broad, vague statement laying out some broad and innocuous principles and agreeing on the need to move forward," said Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia programme at the Wilson Centre.

"Since this dialogue is in its early stages, I don't anticipate any type of major breakthrough. Still, this isn't to understate the significance of these talks.&nbsp;

"The very fact that the dialogue is happening is an achievement in itself, given how fraught and fractured the Afghan political environment is and given that there have been false starts in the past."

Colin Clarke, an expert at the Soufan Centre think-tank, said that Washington was keen for quick progress at the talks after 18 years of war.

"The current (US) administration is so about getting a deal through and the more parties involved the longer it's going to take and it's more complicated," he said.&nbsp;

"They're rushing for the exits, they want to push this thing through. They want to tie up the war and they want to declare victory."

Is the Afghan government's exclusion a Taliban win?

Clarke said that the structure of Sunday's talks at which representatives of the Kabul government would not attend officially but only as individuals meant "Afghan politicians are being marginalised".

"But the fact that the talks are happening and that they're seemingly going as smoothly is a testament to the role that Doha has played in bringing together these disparate factions," he added.

Kugelman said "just about every aspect of this peace and reconciliation process has favoured the Taliban. And that's not a surprise, because the Taliban is negotiating from a position of strength and has all the leverage".

"No one -- not the US, the Afghan government, or anyone else -- is in a position to push back against the Taliban demand that Afghan officials attend these intra-Afghan talks in their personal capacity."

Is the timing significant?

"The US has repeatedly insisted that this dialogue take place, and the fact that it's happening right after its bilateral talks with the Taliban suggests that this may be the closest thing to a concession that the insurgents are willing to grant," said Kugelman.&nbsp;

"That said, the Taliban's refusal to let Afghan government representatives attend in their official capacity makes it a minor more than a major concession."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo recently voiced hope for a peace deal with the Taliban "before September 1".&nbsp;

The ambitious timeframe would allow a deal before Afghanistan holds elections in September, which Western officials fear could inject a new dose of instability.

Trump wants to pull all US troops from Afghanistan, believing that America's longest war -- launched after the September 11, 2001 attacks -- no longer makes military or financial sense.

"I also think there's a greater sense of urgency at play here," said Kugelman.

"With Afghanistan's presidential election scheduled for September, the Americans, the Afghan government, and other key stakeholders will want to do as much as possible before the country goes into election mode.

"Once you go into election mode, it will be hard to maintain the laser-like focus on peace talks in Afghanistan that you have now."

Who will attend the dialogue?

The final list of invitees may not be known until the talks get underway, but the Taliban have suggested on Twitter that more than 60 individuals could attend.

"The invitation list will be a critical factor in determining the dialogue's success," said Kugelman. "If Afghan President Ashraf Ghani seeks to prevent his political rivals from attending, then that would undercut the spirit of a truly inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue.&nbsp;

"In an ideal world, Ghani would step back and enable Afghanistan to put together a broad and diverse group of participants. But unfortunately it's not an ideal world, and there's reason to fear the roster of attendees won't be as inclusive as it should be."

Clarke warned that the exclusion of regional powers like Pakistan, Iran and India from Sunday's gathering could threaten progress.

"It's going to be a very fragile peace unless you get buy-in from regional parties. You're achieving your short-term objective but it's at the cost of longer-term stability. It's very myopic," he told AFP.

Rival Afghans will meet Sunday in Doha for a fresh round of talks mediated by Qatar and Germany, as the United States eyes peace with the Taliban within three months.

Rival Afghans will meet Sunday in Doha for a fresh round of talks mediated by Qatar and Germany, as the United States eyes peace with the Taliban within three months. The first such encounter in Moscow was heralded as a breakthrough but many sensitive issues including women's rights, foreign military withdrawal, Al-Qaeda and power-sharing with the Taliban remain unresolved. Two experts spoke to AFP about their expectations for the talks which follow a week of direct negotiations between the US and the Taliban also in Doha. What will come of the two-day meeting? "We can expect a broad, vague statement laying out some broad and innocuous principles and agreeing on the need to move forward," said Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia programme at the Wilson Centre. "Since this dialogue is in its early stages, I don't anticipate any type of major breakthrough. Still, this isn't to understate the significance of these talks. "The very fact that the dialogue is happening is an achievement in itself, given how fraught and fractured the Afghan political environment is and given that there have been false starts in the past." Colin Clarke, an expert at the Soufan Centre think-tank, said that Washington was keen for quick progress at the talks after 18 years of war. "The current (US) administration is so about getting a deal through and the more parties involved the longer it's going to take and it's more complicated," he said. "They're rushing for the exits, they want to push this thing through. They want to tie up the war and they want to declare victory." Is the Afghan government's exclusion a Taliban win? Clarke said that the structure of Sunday's talks at which representatives of the Kabul government would not attend officially but only as individuals meant "Afghan politicians are being marginalised". "But the fact that the talks are happening and that they're seemingly going as smoothly is a testament to the role that Doha has played in bringing together these disparate factions," he added. Kugelman said "just about every aspect of this peace and reconciliation process has favoured the Taliban. And that's not a surprise, because the Taliban is negotiating from a position of strength and has all the leverage". "No one -- not the US, the Afghan government, or anyone else -- is in a position to push back against the Taliban demand that Afghan officials attend these intra-Afghan talks in their personal capacity." Is the timing significant? "The US has repeatedly insisted that this dialogue take place, and the fact that it's happening right after its bilateral talks with the Taliban suggests that this may be the closest thing to a concession that the insurgents are willing to grant," said Kugelman. "That said, the Taliban's refusal to let Afghan government representatives attend in their official capacity makes it a minor more than a major concession." US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo recently voiced hope for a peace deal with the Taliban "before September 1". The ambitious timeframe would allow a deal before Afghanistan holds elections in September, which Western officials fear could inject a new dose of instability. Trump wants to pull all US troops from Afghanistan, believing that America's longest war -- launched after the September 11, 2001 attacks -- no longer makes military or financial sense. "I also think there's a greater sense of urgency at play here," said Kugelman. "With Afghanistan's presidential election scheduled for September, the Americans, the Afghan government, and other key stakeholders will want to do as much as possible before the country goes into election mode. "Once you go into election mode, it will be hard to maintain the laser-like focus on peace talks in Afghanistan that you have now." Who will attend the dialogue? The final list of invitees may not be known until the talks get underway, but the Taliban have suggested on Twitter that more than 60 individuals could attend. "The invitation list will be a critical factor in determining the dialogue's success," said Kugelman. "If Afghan President Ashraf Ghani seeks to prevent his political rivals from attending, then that would undercut the spirit of a truly inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue. "In an ideal world, Ghani would step back and enable Afghanistan to put together a broad and diverse group of participants. But unfortunately it's not an ideal world, and there's reason to fear the roster of attendees won't be as inclusive as it should be." Clarke warned that the exclusion of regional powers like Pakistan, Iran and India from Sunday's gathering could threaten progress. "It's going to be a very fragile peace unless you get buy-in from regional parties. You're achieving your short-term objective but it's at the cost of longer-term stability. It's very myopic," he told AFP.

Afghans meet in Doha for fresh round of talks as US eyes peace with Taliban

Talks between U.S.-Taliban has resumed in Doha. Taliban will be represented by Abbas Stanekzai while envoy Zalmay Khalilzad will represent U.S. Watch this video to know more.

U.S.-Taliban talks resume in Doha

Upcoming peace talks between the United States and the Taliban will focus on working out a timeline for the withdrawal of US-led troops from Afghanistan and on Taliban guarantee militants won't plot attacks from Afghan soil, sources said on Monday.

The seventh round of talks between the warring sides begins on Saturday in Qatar's capital of Doha, where US and Taliban negotiators have been trying to hammer out a deal to end to the 18-year-long war since October.

"Once the timetable for foreign force withdrawal is announced, then talks will automatically enter the next stage," said Sohail Shaheen, a spokesman for the Taliban's political office in Doha.

"We don't need to wait for the completion of the withdrawal, both withdrawal and talks can move forward simultaneously."

The focus of the talks has been a Taliban demand for the withdrawal of the US and other foreign forces and a US demand the Taliban guarantee that Afghanistan will not be used as a base for militant attacks.

Two other main issues in the process are a ceasefire and talks between the rival Afghan sides - the insurgents and the Western-backed government.

But the Taliban has long refused to talk to the Afghan government, denouncing it as foreign "puppet", and fighting has seen no let-up.

Two other sources with knowledge of the talks said the sixth round in May ended with unease on both sides, but since then informal meeting had taken place to work out what can be agreed on.

The US special envoy for peace in Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, has also held informal meetings with the Taliban leadership in Doha.

"Based on my recent visits to Afghanistan and Qatar, I believe all sides want rapid progress," Khalilzad said on Twitter.

Khalilzad, an Afghan-born American diplomat has been leading the talks to secure a political settlement with the hardline Islamist group that now controls more Afghan territory than at any time since being toppled in 2001 by US-led forces.

About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. Some US forces carry out counter-terrorism operations.

At least 3,804 civilians were killed in the war last year, according to the United Nations. Thousands of Afghan soldiers, police and Taliban were also killed.

Nevertheless, the Taliban leader vowed this month to sustain the fight until their objectives were reached.

In March, a draft agreement was reached on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for a commitment by the Taliban to cut ties with militant groups such as al Qaeda.

A Taliban source said both sides were expecting some clarity and results on the prime issues in the new round talks.

"A ceasefire and intra-Afghan talks will not be discussed during the seventh round," said the Taliban source, who declined to be identified.

Some Afghan government officials side fear the United States and the Taliban will strike a deal on the withdrawal of foreign forces, enabling the United States to get out of an unpopular war but leaving government forces to battle on alone.

Upcoming peace talks between the United States and the Taliban will focus on working out a timeline for the withdrawal of US-led troops from Afghanistan and on Taliban guarantee militants won't plot attacks from Afghan soil, sources said on Monday.

Upcoming peace talks between the United States and the Taliban will focus on working out a timeline for the withdrawal of US-led troops from Afghanistan and on Taliban guarantee militants won't plot attacks from Afghan soil, sources said on Monday. The seventh round of talks between the warring sides begins on Saturday in Qatar's capital of Doha, where US and Taliban negotiators have been trying to hammer out a deal to end to the 18-year-long war since October. "Once the timetable for foreign force withdrawal is announced, then talks will automatically enter the next stage," said Sohail Shaheen, a spokesman for the Taliban's political office in Doha. "We don't need to wait for the completion of the withdrawal, both withdrawal and talks can move forward simultaneously." The focus of the talks has been a Taliban demand for the withdrawal of the US and other foreign forces and a US demand the Taliban guarantee that Afghanistan will not be used as a base for militant attacks. Two other main issues in the process are a ceasefire and talks between the rival Afghan sides - the insurgents and the Western-backed government. But the Taliban has long refused to talk to the Afghan government, denouncing it as foreign "puppet", and fighting has seen no let-up. Two other sources with knowledge of the talks said the sixth round in May ended with unease on both sides, but since then informal meeting had taken place to work out what can be agreed on. The US special envoy for peace in Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, has also held informal meetings with the Taliban leadership in Doha. "Based on my recent visits to Afghanistan and Qatar, I believe all sides want rapid progress," Khalilzad said on Twitter. Khalilzad, an Afghan-born American diplomat has been leading the talks to secure a political settlement with the hardline Islamist group that now controls more Afghan territory than at any time since being toppled in 2001 by US-led forces. About 20,000 foreign troops, most of them American, are in Afghanistan as part of a US-led NATO mission to train, assist and advise Afghan forces. Some US forces carry out counter-terrorism operations. At least 3,804 civilians were killed in the war last year, according to the United Nations. Thousands of Afghan soldiers, police and Taliban were also killed. Nevertheless, the Taliban leader vowed this month to sustain the fight until their objectives were reached. In March, a draft agreement was reached on the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for a commitment by the Taliban to cut ties with militant groups such as al Qaeda. A Taliban source said both sides were expecting some clarity and results on the prime issues in the new round talks. "A ceasefire and intra-Afghan talks will not be discussed during the seventh round," said the Taliban source, who declined to be identified. Some Afghan government officials side fear the United States and the Taliban will strike a deal on the withdrawal of foreign forces, enabling the United States to get out of an unpopular war but leaving government forces to battle on alone.

United States,Taliban aim to firm up date for foreign force exit from Afghanistan

Dozens of Afghan political leaders have attended a conference in neighbouring Pakistan to discuss possible ways to achieve peace in the war-torn country.

US and Taliban to hold talks in Doha

Women will be&nbsp;taking part in the intra-Afghan <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-to-hold-peace-talks-with-taliban-in-qatar-208717&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjapuTUl9ThAhXBOY8KHfJLBIAQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw20HNDiCJDOhdsfs-GhQpAt">peace talks</a> in Qatar this month, the Taliban's main spokesman said on Monday, ahead of the latest round of meetings aimed at ending the war in Afghanistan.

The April 19-21 meeting in Doha will be between the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-peace-talks-progress-is-being-made-in-qatar-with-taliban-reports-us-201426&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjapuTUl9ThAhXBOY8KHfJLBIAQFggIMAE&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Wl2tye10c_Z-RCoCzNnQQ">Taliban </a>and a delegation comprising prominent Afghans, including opposition politicians and civil society activists. It follows similar talks between the two sides in Moscow in February.

The non-Taliban delegation that was in Moscow could be expanded next week to include some government officials, but acting in their private capacities as the insurgents have refused to hold formal talks with Kabul.

"There will be women among Taliban delegation members in the Doha, Qatar meeting," Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's main spokesman, said by telephone.

He did not name the women, but added, "These women have no family relationship with the senior members of the Taliban, they are normal Afghans, from inside and outside the country, who have been supporters and part of the struggle of the Islamic Emirate".

In a tweet, he specified that the women would only join the discussions with Afghan civil society and political representatives, not in the main negotiations with American officials, led by US &nbsp;special peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad.

Khalilzad has not yet set dates for the next round of talks with the Taliban, a State Department spokesperson said.

"We do not have new US talks with the Taliban to announce at this time. Before additional talks, we look forward to knowing the outcome of the intra-Afghan dialogue," the spokesperson said in an email.

Khalilzad, a veteran Afghan-born US diplomat, is working to secure an accord with the Taliban on a US troop pullout, measures to prevent al Qaeda and other extremists from using Afghanistan as a springboard for attacks, a ceasefire and inter-Afghan talks that include the government on the country`s political future.

The Taliban have rejected formal talks with the government, which they dismiss as a "puppet" regime controlled by the United States.

While Afghanistan remains a deeply conservative country, especially in rural areas, there have been major advances in women`s rights since the US-led campaign of 2001 that toppled the Taliban government.

Fawzia Koofi, a former member of parliament who took part in the meetings in Moscow, said the presence of women in the Taliban team was a "good step".

"Only women can feel the pain and miseries that Afghan women have suffered. The presence of women among the Taliban negotiators shows that the Taliban`s ideology has changed."

Jeanne Shaheen, a member of the US Senate Armed Services Committee, who has been pressing for women to play a role in the peace talks said the process should be inclusive.

Future international support for Afghanistan could be affected by whether women`s rights were properly respected in any settlement, she said.

"There are certain levers that we have, that the Taliban are interested in," she told reporters in Kabul, where she was visiting as part of a Congressional delegation.

"There is going to be an interest in economic support after the conflict ends."

"I think if the Taliban has any interest in getting international support ... it would be in their interest to recognise the importance of including women and including human rights as part of any settlement that happens."

Women will be taking part in the intra-Afghan peace talks in Qatar this month, the Taliban's main spokesman said on Monday, ahead of the latest round of meetings aimed at ending the war in Afghanistan.

Women will be taking part in the intra-Afghan peace talks in Qatar this month, the Taliban's main spokesman said on Monday, ahead of the latest round of meetings aimed at ending the war in Afghanistan. The April 19-21 meeting in Doha will be between the Taliban and a delegation comprising prominent Afghans, including opposition politicians and civil society activists. It follows similar talks between the two sides in Moscow in February. The non-Taliban delegation that was in Moscow could be expanded next week to include some government officials, but acting in their private capacities as the insurgents have refused to hold formal talks with Kabul. "There will be women among Taliban delegation members in the Doha, Qatar meeting," Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban's main spokesman, said by telephone. He did not name the women, but added, "These women have no family relationship with the senior members of the Taliban, they are normal Afghans, from inside and outside the country, who have been supporters and part of the struggle of the Islamic Emirate". In a tweet, he specified that the women would only join the discussions with Afghan civil society and political representatives, not in the main negotiations with American officials, led by US special peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad. Khalilzad has not yet set dates for the next round of talks with the Taliban, a State Department spokesperson said. "We do not have new US talks with the Taliban to announce at this time. Before additional talks, we look forward to knowing the outcome of the intra-Afghan dialogue," the spokesperson said in an email. Khalilzad, a veteran Afghan-born US diplomat, is working to secure an accord with the Taliban on a US troop pullout, measures to prevent al Qaeda and other extremists from using Afghanistan as a springboard for attacks, a ceasefire and inter-Afghan talks that include the government on the country`s political future. The Taliban have rejected formal talks with the government, which they dismiss as a "puppet" regime controlled by the United States. While Afghanistan remains a deeply conservative country, especially in rural areas, there have been major advances in women`s rights since the US-led campaign of 2001 that toppled the Taliban government. Fawzia Koofi, a former member of parliament who took part in the meetings in Moscow, said the presence of women in the Taliban team was a "good step". "Only women can feel the pain and miseries that Afghan women have suffered. The presence of women among the Taliban negotiators shows that the Taliban`s ideology has changed." Jeanne Shaheen, a member of the US Senate Armed Services Committee, who has been pressing for women to play a role in the peace talks said the process should be inclusive. Future international support for Afghanistan could be affected by whether women`s rights were properly respected in any settlement, she said. "There are certain levers that we have, that the Taliban are interested in," she told reporters in Kabul, where she was visiting as part of a Congressional delegation. "There is going to be an interest in economic support after the conflict ends." "I think if the Taliban has any interest in getting international support ... it would be in their interest to recognise the importance of including women and including human rights as part of any settlement that happens."

Women to take part in intra-Afghan peace talks in Qatar: Taliban spokesman

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