A chief negotiator of the Afghan government has said that the issue of targeted killings will be discussed when the next phase of the peace talks with the Taliban will resume on January 5.

"This (targeted killings) is one of the serious issues that we need to raise and follow," TOLO News quoted chief negotiator Masoom Stanekzai as saying on Friday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/what-to-know-as-troubled-afghan-peace-talks-enter-a-new-phase-353923" hreflang="en">What to know as troubled Afghan peace talks enter a new phase</a>

The remarks come as six journalists have been killed in various incidents of targeted attacks across Afghanistan in the last two months.

On Friday, Bismillah Adil Aimaq, a journalist and civil society activist in Ghor province, was killed in an attack by unidentified armed men in the city of Feroz Koh.

On Thursday evening, Abdi Jahid, a civil society activist from Baghlan was killed in an attack in Kabul`s PD17 area, police said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-radio-journalist-shot-dead-in-ghor-province-353909" hreflang="en">Afghanistan: Radio journalist shot dead in Ghor province</a>

"We witnessed the killing of several journalists here in Kabul and in the provinces. This issue has raised concerns among the Afghan media community," TOLO News quoted Reza Shaheer, a journalist based in the Afghan capital, as saying.

Since January 2020, 11 Afghan journalists and media workers have been killed, making this one of the deadliest years.

A chief negotiator of the Afghan government has said that the issue of targeted killings will be discussed when the next phase of the peace talks with the Taliban will resume on January 5.

A chief negotiator of the Afghan government has said that the issue of targeted killings will be discussed when the next phase of the peace talks with the Taliban will resume on January 5. "This (targeted killings) is one of the serious issues that we need to raise and follow," TOLO News quoted chief negotiator Masoom Stanekzai as saying on Friday. Also read| What to know as troubled Afghan peace talks enter a new phase The remarks come as six journalists have been killed in various incidents of targeted attacks across Afghanistan in the last two months. On Friday, Bismillah Adil Aimaq, a journalist and civil society activist in Ghor province, was killed in an attack by unidentified armed men in the city of Feroz Koh. On Thursday evening, Abdi Jahid, a civil society activist from Baghlan was killed in an attack in Kabul`s PD17 area, police said. Also read| Afghanistan: Radio journalist shot dead in Ghor province "We witnessed the killing of several journalists here in Kabul and in the provinces. This issue has raised concerns among the Afghan media community," TOLO News quoted Reza Shaheer, a journalist based in the Afghan capital, as saying. Since January 2020, 11 Afghan journalists and media workers have been killed, making this one of the deadliest years.

Targeted killings to be discussed in Afghan peace talks: Top official

Peace negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghan government held in Qatar will be paused until January 5, both sides said on Saturday.

The insurgents and the Kabul side both tweeted they had exchanged "preliminary lists of agenda items for the inter-Afghan talks and held introductory discussions on the topics" to be covered when the meetings restart.

Javid Faisal, an adviser to Afghanistan's National Security Council, confirmed a "couple of weeks" pause, adding that Kabul was keen for the next round of negotiations to be held in Afghanistan.

"Bring talks home, the important proposal of the Afghan government to the Taliban," he tweeted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Bring talks home, the important proposal of the Afghan government to the Taliban. Peace talks between Afghans should be held within Afghanistan (anywhere the Taliban pick) and impacted by the Afghan realities than being affected by foreigners and the conditions outside. <a href="https://t.co/zkaPwBgVzE">https://t.co/zkaPwBgVzE</a>
— Javid Faisal (@Javidfaisal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Javidfaisal/status/1337689428869967872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Peace talks between Afghans should be held within Afghanistan (anywhere the Taliban pick) and impacted by the Afghan realities," he said, rather than "being affected by foreigners and the conditions outside".

The meetings, which began in September, had until recently been bogged down by disputes on the basic framework of discussions and religious interpretations.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/multiple-rockets-hit-kabul-one-killed-349204" hreflang="en">Multiple rockets hit Kabul, one killed</a>

But earlier this month, both sides announced they were ready to proceed after a period of concerted diplomatic effort that saw outgoing United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visit both teams.

The breakthrough was heralded by the US as an "initial major step".

"Since the agenda items need further consultations, the two sides agreed for a recess and to resume the 2nd round of talks on January 5, 2021," tweeted Afghan government negotiator Nader Nadery.

Taliban spokesman Mohammad Naeem tweeted an almost identical statement, but added that from December 14, there would be "consultations" on the agenda items.

The warring sides have been engaging directly for the first time in talks following a landmark troop withdrawal deal signed in February by the insurgents and Washington.

The US agreed to withdraw all foreign forces by May 2021 in exchange for security guarantees and a Taliban pledge to hold talks with Kabul.

Despite the talks, there has been a surge of violence in Afghanistan in recent weeks.

Since signing the deal with Washington, the insurgents have launched near daily attacks against Afghan forces, primarily in rural areas.

Peace negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghan government held in Qatar will be paused until January 5, both sides said on Saturday. The insurgents and the Kabul side both tweeted they had exchanged "preliminary lists of agenda items for the inter-Afghan talks and held introductory discussions on the topics" to be covered when the meetings restart.

Peace negotiations between the Taliban and the Afghan government held in Qatar will be paused until January 5, both sides said on Saturday. The insurgents and the Kabul side both tweeted they had exchanged "preliminary lists of agenda items for the inter-Afghan talks and held introductory discussions on the topics" to be covered when the meetings restart. Javid Faisal, an adviser to Afghanistan's National Security Council, confirmed a "couple of weeks" pause, adding that Kabul was keen for the next round of negotiations to be held in Afghanistan. "Bring talks home, the important proposal of the Afghan government to the Taliban," he tweeted. Bring talks home, the important proposal of the Afghan government to the Taliban. Peace talks between Afghans should be held within Afghanistan (anywhere the Taliban pick) and impacted by the Afghan realities than being affected by foreigners and the conditions outside. https://t.co/zkaPwBgVzE — Javid Faisal (@Javidfaisal) December 12, 2020 × "Peace talks between Afghans should be held within Afghanistan (anywhere the Taliban pick) and impacted by the Afghan realities," he said, rather than "being affected by foreigners and the conditions outside". The meetings, which began in September, had until recently been bogged down by disputes on the basic framework of discussions and religious interpretations. Also read| Multiple rockets hit Kabul, one killed But earlier this month, both sides announced they were ready to proceed after a period of concerted diplomatic effort that saw outgoing United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visit both teams. The breakthrough was heralded by the US as an "initial major step". "Since the agenda items need further consultations, the two sides agreed for a recess and to resume the 2nd round of talks on January 5, 2021," tweeted Afghan government negotiator Nader Nadery. Taliban spokesman Mohammad Naeem tweeted an almost identical statement, but added that from December 14, there would be "consultations" on the agenda items. The warring sides have been engaging directly for the first time in talks following a landmark troop withdrawal deal signed in February by the insurgents and Washington. The US agreed to withdraw all foreign forces by May 2021 in exchange for security guarantees and a Taliban pledge to hold talks with Kabul. Despite the talks, there has been a surge of violence in Afghanistan in recent weeks. Since signing the deal with Washington, the insurgents have launched near daily attacks against Afghan forces, primarily in rural areas.

Afghanistan talks paused until New Year

The negotiators from parties of the Intra-Afghanistan peace negotiations — the Taliban and the Afghanistan government — have agreed on procedural rules with 21 items for the intra-Afghan talks on November 15, said the Taliban Spokesperson on Saturday.

"The procedure of Intra-Afghan negotiations between the negotiating teams was completed and finalized in 21 articles on the 15th of November 2020," tweeted Mohammad Naeem, a spokesman for the Taliban.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-to-discharge-13-soldiers-after-afghan-war-crimes-probe-345705">Australia to discharge 13 soldiers after Afghan war crimes probe</a>

Citing sources, Tolo News reported that, this week, a breakthrough in the talks and said both sides have agreed to include the US-Taliban agreement, UN endorsements for the Afghan peace process, commitments of the negotiating teams and the will of the people of Afghanistan.

However, the Presidential Palace denied the reports that any progress had been made in the peace talks and said that the deadlock still remained.

Afghan chief negotiator Mohammad Massoom Stanikzai and presidential peace adviser Salam Rahimi have been on a secret trip to Kabul over the past three days, seeking President Ghani`s approval for the agreed formulation, according to sources this week.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-role-praised-by-president-ghani-at-afghanistan-conference-in-geneva-345123">India's role praised by President Ghani at Afghanistan conference in Geneva</a>

The peace negotiations between teams from the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Taliban started on September 12 but to date, no direct talks have started because of disagreements on procedural rules for the negotiations.

Since the start of negotiations in Doha, members of the contact groups of both sides of the peace negotiations have met several times to agree on the contested issue.

"The Taliban has staged attacks on the centers of at least 50 districts in 16 provinces of the country following the signing of the peace deal with the US in Doha in February, and most of these attacks happened in the last two months after the start of the negotiations in Qatar on September 12," sources from various provinces said Thursday, reported by Tolo News.&nbsp;

The negotiators from parties of the Intra-Afghanistan peace negotiations — the Taliban and the Afghanistan government — have agreed on procedural rules with 21 items for the intra-Afghan talks on November 15, said the Taliban Spokesperson on Saturday.

The negotiators from parties of the Intra-Afghanistan peace negotiations — the Taliban and the Afghanistan government — have agreed on procedural rules with 21 items for the intra-Afghan talks on November 15, said the Taliban Spokesperson on Saturday. "The procedure of Intra-Afghan negotiations between the negotiating teams was completed and finalized in 21 articles on the 15th of November 2020," tweeted Mohammad Naeem, a spokesman for the Taliban. Also read| Australia to discharge 13 soldiers after Afghan war crimes probe Citing sources, Tolo News reported that, this week, a breakthrough in the talks and said both sides have agreed to include the US-Taliban agreement, UN endorsements for the Afghan peace process, commitments of the negotiating teams and the will of the people of Afghanistan. However, the Presidential Palace denied the reports that any progress had been made in the peace talks and said that the deadlock still remained. Afghan chief negotiator Mohammad Massoom Stanikzai and presidential peace adviser Salam Rahimi have been on a secret trip to Kabul over the past three days, seeking President Ghani`s approval for the agreed formulation, according to sources this week. Also read| India's role praised by President Ghani at Afghanistan conference in Geneva The peace negotiations between teams from the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Taliban started on September 12 but to date, no direct talks have started because of disagreements on procedural rules for the negotiations. Since the start of negotiations in Doha, members of the contact groups of both sides of the peace negotiations have met several times to agree on the contested issue. "The Taliban has staged attacks on the centers of at least 50 districts in 16 provinces of the country following the signing of the peace deal with the US in Doha in February, and most of these attacks happened in the last two months after the start of the negotiations in Qatar on September 12," sources from various provinces said Thursday, reported by Tolo News.

On November 15 Doha Negotiators agreed on rules: Taliban

There has been no progress in the Afghanistan peace negotiations in Doha as formal meetings between the two sides comprising representatives of the Kabul government and Taliban, have remained suspended for the past 10 days.

Despite recent diplomatic efforts, the two sides were yet to reach a conclusion about the procedural rules intended to kick start the direct peace negotiations aimed at ending the decades-long war in Afghanistan, TOLO News reported on Saturday.

Since the intra-Afghan talks were formally launched on September 12, two sides have agreed on 18 out of 20 articles for the procedural rules.

But two main articles -- religious basis for the talks and connection of the US-Taliban deal with the negotiations -- remain unsolved.

The Taliban has not made an official comment about the resumption of the talks, but the government team has said that the negotiation will continue until the two sides reach a settlement.

This comes days after US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad said he expects the Afghan peace process to be concluded in months, not years.

On Saturday, Abdullah Abdullah, head of the High Council for National Reconciliation, said that an early withdrawal of international troops from Afghanistan will have some impacts on the ongoing peace process and the country`s situation, TOLO News reported.

But he also said that Afghans should be ready for any type of conditions and that they should work for their future together.

There has been no progress in the Afghanistan peace negotiations in Doha as formal meetings between the two sides comprising representatives of the Kabul government and Taliban, have remained suspended for the past 10 days.

There has been no progress in the Afghanistan peace negotiations in Doha as formal meetings between the two sides comprising representatives of the Kabul government and Taliban, have remained suspended for the past 10 days. Despite recent diplomatic efforts, the two sides were yet to reach a conclusion about the procedural rules intended to kick start the direct peace negotiations aimed at ending the decades-long war in Afghanistan, TOLO News reported on Saturday. Since the intra-Afghan talks were formally launched on September 12, two sides have agreed on 18 out of 20 articles for the procedural rules. But two main articles -- religious basis for the talks and connection of the US-Taliban deal with the negotiations -- remain unsolved. The Taliban has not made an official comment about the resumption of the talks, but the government team has said that the negotiation will continue until the two sides reach a settlement. This comes days after US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad said he expects the Afghan peace process to be concluded in months, not years. On Saturday, Abdullah Abdullah, head of the High Council for National Reconciliation, said that an early withdrawal of international troops from Afghanistan will have some impacts on the ongoing peace process and the country`s situation, TOLO News reported. But he also said that Afghans should be ready for any type of conditions and that they should work for their future together.

No progress in Doha talks for Afghan peace

Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah has said, Taliban cannot take advantage of the US leaving the country and any plans to "take advantage of that situation militarily could be a mis calculation."

Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Dr Abdullah who is the chief negotiator of Afghan government&nbsp;at the intra Afghan talks in Doha said, "No threats should emanate from Afghanistan... It requires a sense of responsibility from all Afghans including the Taliban."

Lauding, New Delhi's "principled position of Afghan led, Afghan owned negotiations", he said, "India's vision of a peaceful, democratic Afghanistan... is very much in the line of thinking of people of Afghanistan." &nbsp;

Dr Abdullah was on a four-day visit to India earlier this week during which he met PM Modi, NSA Doval and EAM Jaishankar. He is the first foreign dignitary PM Modi has met amid the covid crisis that started earlier this year.&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp;How was your India visit? Did you met the Indian leadership? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah: It has been a very good visit. It has happened in a very friendly, supportive and sympathetic&nbsp;environment with authorities of the country which has helped Afghanistan for many years and many ways. Also, they aspire for peaceful settlement of the situation in Afghanistan.

We had extensive talks, as you mentioned, PM Modi, EAM Jaishankar, NSA Doval and engagement with think tank, civil society. We discussed the current situation, way forward, and also the joint decision was continued focus on engagements and interactions for future.&nbsp;

WION: What can India do for peace talks? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah: EAM Jaishankar addressed the inaugural session of Doha meetings, which was welcomed by us and by the international community.

India's principled position of Afghan-led, Afghan owned negotiations is important. India's vision of a peaceful, democratic Afghanistan, a country that respects the rights of its citizens, women and minorities especially, and also does not harbor terrorists, that is very much in the line of thinking of people of Afghanistan.

Equally important is your position, whatever is acceptable for a peaceful Afghanistan, for the people of Afghanistan through an Afghan-led process is acceptable for us. So in that sense, the Doha negotiations started, which was historically in its essence. The fact that we have only met in the battle field,&nbsp;it was the first time we are sitting across the table, after many many years. That was important, at this stage more interactions and more engagements will be needed.

WION: India is reaching out, do you see a change in stance by India? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah:&nbsp;It is mainly the start of the talks&nbsp;which has encouraged different countries including India to watch the situation, not only to watch but to participate in the effort which were made. Different countries have certain roles to play;&nbsp;India has voiced support for inclusive peaceful settlement. It is important.

WION: Do you foresee India talking with Taliban? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah: It will depend on India's decision on how to move forward;&nbsp;it will depend on circumstances in Afghanistan, should we see progress in the talks, should we see progress in the progress in reduction in violence. India might explore different options, including the one you referred to.&nbsp;

WION: So you foresee that? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah:&nbsp;I mean, as I said, it depends on the circumstances, and how it evolves and should this happen, it will be okay. If circumstances were such that India decides not to do it, we have no view on that.&nbsp;

WION: On Pakistan and the issue of cross border terror, do you see a change in view? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah:&nbsp;Focus of the discussions were peace situations, and also some aspects of bilateral relations that was having a direct impact on our citizens. Progress was made, good decisions were made in that regard including visa regulations, issues related to trade. Main focus was on the peace, and with interacted political and military establishment, with PM Imran Khan himself, President of Pakistan, Chairman of the national assembly, chairman of senate, civil society, religious scholars of Pakistan. It was a busy schedule for good.

Islamabad's message was peace in Afghanistan means peace in Pakistan and peace in the region was welcomed. We shared view that talks should continue, violence should be reduced and both sides need to show flexibility. As far as talks in Doha are concerned, let me repeat it once again — our negotiating team has been advised by the President, by myself to go there with good faith, show patience, show flexibility and be innovative. The start of the talks is an opportunity, start of the talks is an historical opportunity and we should utilize it in the best interest of our people.&nbsp;

WION: But do you see Islamabad leaving aside its policy of supporting non-state actors?&nbsp; 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah: In terms of our topics of discussion, which was mainly allow peace in Afghanistan: of course, we believe peaceful settlement in Afghanistan, means peace within Afghanistan&nbsp;which is not a threat. No group is allowed to pose any threat against any country from Afghanistan. Without it,&nbsp;peace will not materialise in Afghanistan. Those were the issues which were discussed and we will continue the discussions there.&nbsp;

WION: Any Pakistani terror groups based in Afghanistan? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah: There are groups, which we consider as terrorist groups, which are posing threats against our own people and one-two groups posing threats against Pakistan as well. There are well-known terror groups such as Al Qaeda, IS and many that pose threats against central Asian republics as well.

There will and are groups in that type of environment that will utilise Afghanistan against India as well. So, it is important&nbsp;peaceful settlement is important for everybody, that is from challenges it posed for everybody. Peaceful environment will help south Asia, first and foremost Afghanistan, central Asia.

WION:What do you think is one solution to peace in South Asia —&nbsp;connectivity is one, any&nbsp;others you see? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah: Countries looking beyond immediate self-interest and looking at a broader collective security and stability point of view in long term, that thinking needs to be encouraged . Then of course, next is connectivity will bring economic prosperity, people to people relations and cultural relations are equally important.&nbsp;

WION: And how do you see connectivity projects like Chabahar? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah:&nbsp;Chabahar is an important project, and that will help. I mentioned relations, it's just not India and Pakistan but Iran, US, Russia, Central Asia, it's a much border thing. Afghanistan has been at war for last 42 years and we have suffered a lot. I think and believe, that we all have missed opportunities because of the continued instability.&nbsp;

WION: Do you see gains of last 20 years begin preserved after Americans leave? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah: About the recent announcement by President Trump, we don't have the whole context of it as of now. Details have not been provided, if it is reference to decisions already made, which is already being&nbsp;implemented. As we speak, the US troops are withdrawing to a number which will be a few thousand behind. That will be completed by December or late November. If it is referred to that or something else, that remains to be seen.

Eventually, Afghanistan should be able to stand on its own feet, no doubt about it. If you look at the different side, let's say Taliban think tomorrow, next month or in a few month the US will withdraw from Afghanistan and they can take advantage of that situation militarily that could be a miscalculation.

I would rather expect them to think otherwise, because all along their claims that they don't want foreign troops in our soil, that has been our position as well — that Afghanistan has to stand on its own feet. And that only materialize when there is peace, no terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan. No threats emanating from Afghanistan against any country. It has to be looked from that side. It requires a sense of responsibility from all Afghans including the Taliban.

WION: How do see China's role in Afghanistan? 
Dr Abdullah Abdullah: China's official position has been supported for an inclusive, afghan led, Afghan-owned peaceful settlement which we have supported. Chinese FM also addressed the Doha meeting. What will be the future, again a lot will depend on peaceful settlement in Afghanistan. How different countries put the respective interest, how we will be impacted, because of that, what will be the configurations of the different country's role and influence. Everything is not predictable at this stage, again no connectivity project will achieve its potential if terror groups are active in our region. Next to it is, addressing the differences via amicable ways while understanding one another's concerns is important. The zero sum game will not work. So far china has been supportive of the peace process and we appreciate that.&nbsp;

Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah has said, Taliban cannot take advantage of the US leaving the country and any plans to "take advantage of that situation militarily could be a mis calculation.

Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah has said, Taliban cannot take advantage of the US leaving the country and any plans to "take advantage of that situation militarily could be a mis calculation." Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Dr Abdullah who is the chief negotiator of Afghan government at the intra Afghan talks in Doha said, "No threats should emanate from Afghanistan... It requires a sense of responsibility from all Afghans including the Taliban." Lauding, New Delhi's "principled position of Afghan led, Afghan owned negotiations", he said, "India's vision of a peaceful, democratic Afghanistan... is very much in the line of thinking of people of Afghanistan." Dr Abdullah was on a four-day visit to India earlier this week during which he met PM Modi, NSA Doval and EAM Jaishankar. He is the first foreign dignitary PM Modi has met amid the covid crisis that started earlier this year. WION: How was your India visit? Did you met the Indian leadership? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: It has been a very good visit. It has happened in a very friendly, supportive and sympathetic environment with authorities of the country which has helped Afghanistan for many years and many ways. Also, they aspire for peaceful settlement of the situation in Afghanistan. We had extensive talks, as you mentioned, PM Modi, EAM Jaishankar, NSA Doval and engagement with think tank, civil society. We discussed the current situation, way forward, and also the joint decision was continued focus on engagements and interactions for future. WION: What can India do for peace talks? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: EAM Jaishankar addressed the inaugural session of Doha meetings, which was welcomed by us and by the international community. India's principled position of Afghan-led, Afghan owned negotiations is important. India's vision of a peaceful, democratic Afghanistan, a country that respects the rights of its citizens, women and minorities especially, and also does not harbor terrorists, that is very much in the line of thinking of people of Afghanistan. Equally important is your position, whatever is acceptable for a peaceful Afghanistan, for the people of Afghanistan through an Afghan-led process is acceptable for us. So in that sense, the Doha negotiations started, which was historically in its essence. The fact that we have only met in the battle field, it was the first time we are sitting across the table, after many many years. That was important, at this stage more interactions and more engagements will be needed. WION: India is reaching out, do you see a change in stance by India? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: It is mainly the start of the talks which has encouraged different countries including India to watch the situation, not only to watch but to participate in the effort which were made. Different countries have certain roles to play; India has voiced support for inclusive peaceful settlement. It is important. WION: Do you foresee India talking with Taliban? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: It will depend on India's decision on how to move forward; it will depend on circumstances in Afghanistan, should we see progress in the talks, should we see progress in the progress in reduction in violence. India might explore different options, including the one you referred to. WION: So you foresee that? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: I mean, as I said, it depends on the circumstances, and how it evolves and should this happen, it will be okay. If circumstances were such that India decides not to do it, we have no view on that. WION: On Pakistan and the issue of cross border terror, do you see a change in view? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: Focus of the discussions were peace situations, and also some aspects of bilateral relations that was having a direct impact on our citizens. Progress was made, good decisions were made in that regard including visa regulations, issues related to trade. Main focus was on the peace, and with interacted political and military establishment, with PM Imran Khan himself, President of Pakistan, Chairman of the national assembly, chairman of senate, civil society, religious scholars of Pakistan. It was a busy schedule for good. Islamabad's message was peace in Afghanistan means peace in Pakistan and peace in the region was welcomed. We shared view that talks should continue, violence should be reduced and both sides need to show flexibility. As far as talks in Doha are concerned, let me repeat it once again — our negotiating team has been advised by the President, by myself to go there with good faith, show patience, show flexibility and be innovative. The start of the talks is an opportunity, start of the talks is an historical opportunity and we should utilize it in the best interest of our people. WION: But do you see Islamabad leaving aside its policy of supporting non-state actors? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: In terms of our topics of discussion, which was mainly allow peace in Afghanistan: of course, we believe peaceful settlement in Afghanistan, means peace within Afghanistan which is not a threat. No group is allowed to pose any threat against any country from Afghanistan. Without it, peace will not materialise in Afghanistan. Those were the issues which were discussed and we will continue the discussions there. WION: Any Pakistani terror groups based in Afghanistan? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: There are groups, which we consider as terrorist groups, which are posing threats against our own people and one-two groups posing threats against Pakistan as well. There are well-known terror groups such as Al Qaeda, IS and many that pose threats against central Asian republics as well. There will and are groups in that type of environment that will utilise Afghanistan against India as well. So, it is important peaceful settlement is important for everybody, that is from challenges it posed for everybody. Peaceful environment will help south Asia, first and foremost Afghanistan, central Asia. WION:What do you think is one solution to peace in South Asia — connectivity is one, any others you see? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: Countries looking beyond immediate self-interest and looking at a broader collective security and stability point of view in long term, that thinking needs to be encouraged . Then of course, next is connectivity will bring economic prosperity, people to people relations and cultural relations are equally important. WION: And how do you see connectivity projects like Chabahar? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: Chabahar is an important project, and that will help. I mentioned relations, it's just not India and Pakistan but Iran, US, Russia, Central Asia, it's a much border thing. Afghanistan has been at war for last 42 years and we have suffered a lot. I think and believe, that we all have missed opportunities because of the continued instability. WION: Do you see gains of last 20 years begin preserved after Americans leave? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: About the recent announcement by President Trump, we don't have the whole context of it as of now. Details have not been provided, if it is reference to decisions already made, which is already being implemented. As we speak, the US troops are withdrawing to a number which will be a few thousand behind. That will be completed by December or late November. If it is referred to that or something else, that remains to be seen. Eventually, Afghanistan should be able to stand on its own feet, no doubt about it. If you look at the different side, let's say Taliban think tomorrow, next month or in a few month the US will withdraw from Afghanistan and they can take advantage of that situation militarily that could be a miscalculation. I would rather expect them to think otherwise, because all along their claims that they don't want foreign troops in our soil, that has been our position as well — that Afghanistan has to stand on its own feet. And that only materialize when there is peace, no terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan. No threats emanating from Afghanistan against any country. It has to be looked from that side. It requires a sense of responsibility from all Afghans including the Taliban. WION: How do see China's role in Afghanistan? Dr Abdullah Abdullah: China's official position has been supported for an inclusive, afghan led, Afghan-owned peaceful settlement which we have supported. Chinese FM also addressed the Doha meeting. What will be the future, again a lot will depend on peaceful settlement in Afghanistan. How different countries put the respective interest, how we will be impacted, because of that, what will be the configurations of the different country's role and influence. Everything is not predictable at this stage, again no connectivity project will achieve its potential if terror groups are active in our region. Next to it is, addressing the differences via amicable ways while understanding one another's concerns is important. The zero sum game will not work. So far china has been supportive of the peace process and we appreciate that.

Taliban can't take advantage of US leaving, says Dr. Abdullah; lauds India's stance on peace process

Two Democratic senators on Monday asked US Defense Secretary Mike Esper what happened to $1 billion in aid for Afghanistan the Trump administration said it would cut nearly three months ago, according to a letter reviewed by Reuters.

Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Robert Menendez, the top Democrat on the Foreign Relations Committee, demanded Esper explain whether the funds had been cut and if so from which accounts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-polio-cases-reported-in-afghanistan-balkh-herat-badakhshan-305917">Also watch:&nbsp;New Polio cases reported in Afghanistan | Balkh, Herat, Badakhshan</a>

"Will the execution of such funding cuts impact the US military presence on the ground in Afghanistan?" they asked in the letter, requesting a reply by June 26.

"If the administration has determined that this cut in security assistance does not diminish our ability to pursue our national security objectives, what conditions have changed to create such a sizeable surplus?" they added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/eight-killed-in-armed-attack-on-clinic-in-eastern-afghanistan-including-political-figure-305659">Also read:&nbsp;Eight killed in armed attack on clinic in Eastern Afghanistan, including political figure</a>

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the reduction on March 23 to try to force Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his political rival Abdullah Abdullah to end a feud that had helped stall US-led peace-making efforts in Afghanistan.

Ghani and Abdullah on May 17 signed a power-sharing deal, raising questions whether Washington would reduce the funding.

After nearly two decades of fighting the Taliban, the United States is looking to extricate itself and to achieve peace between the US-backed government and the militant group. But despite the pact between Ghani and Abdullah, peace talks between the government and the Taliban have yet to occur.

Reuters reported on April 5 the reduction would come from funds for Afghan security forces and, on May 20, that the Pentagon had not withheld the money despite Pompeo`s March 23 vow to cut it "immediately."

On June 1, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad said he thought the money had been cut and referred questions to the Pentagon.

The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the letter.

Two Democratic senators on Monday asked US Defense Secretary Mike Esper what happened to $1 billion in aid for Afghanistan the Trump administration said it would cut nearly three months ago, according to a letter reviewed by Reuters.

Two Democratic senators on Monday asked US Defense Secretary Mike Esper what happened to $1 billion in aid for Afghanistan the Trump administration said it would cut nearly three months ago, according to a letter reviewed by Reuters. Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Robert Menendez, the top Democrat on the Foreign Relations Committee, demanded Esper explain whether the funds had been cut and if so from which accounts. Also watch: New Polio cases reported in Afghanistan | Balkh, Herat, Badakhshan "Will the execution of such funding cuts impact the US military presence on the ground in Afghanistan?" they asked in the letter, requesting a reply by June 26. "If the administration has determined that this cut in security assistance does not diminish our ability to pursue our national security objectives, what conditions have changed to create such a sizeable surplus?" they added. Also read: Eight killed in armed attack on clinic in Eastern Afghanistan, including political figure Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the reduction on March 23 to try to force Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his political rival Abdullah Abdullah to end a feud that had helped stall US-led peace-making efforts in Afghanistan. Ghani and Abdullah on May 17 signed a power-sharing deal, raising questions whether Washington would reduce the funding. After nearly two decades of fighting the Taliban, the United States is looking to extricate itself and to achieve peace between the US-backed government and the militant group. But despite the pact between Ghani and Abdullah, peace talks between the government and the Taliban have yet to occur. Reuters reported on April 5 the reduction would come from funds for Afghan security forces and, on May 20, that the Pentagon had not withheld the money despite Pompeo`s March 23 vow to cut it "immediately." On June 1, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad said he thought the money had been cut and referred questions to the Pentagon. The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the letter.

US senators ask Pentagon if $1 billion in Afghan aid was cut

Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations during his meeting with Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, the American embassy in Islamabad said on Monday.

Khalilzad visited Islamabad on Sunday and held talks with Bajwa on the Afghan peace process. He is travelling to Qatar, Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of efforts to bring peace in the war-torn country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/intra-afghan-talks-to-be-held-in-doha-304080">Also read:&nbsp;Intra-Afghan talks to be held in Doha</a>

During the three-nation tour, Khalilzad will review commitments in the recently signed US-Taliban Agreement and the US-Afghanistan Joint Declaration, specifically reducing violence and prisoner releases. The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001.

The US embassy said in a statement that in the meeting with General Bajwa, Ambassador Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of intra-Afghan negotiations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-warns-of-disaster-as-virus-infections-surge-303866">Also read:&nbsp;Afghanistan warns of 'disaster' as virus infections surge</a>

"The two took note of recent progress created by the Eid ceasefire and accelerated prisoner releases as well as reduced violence ahead of intra-Afghan negotiations,"&nbsp;it said.

Khalilzad "expressed his appreciation for the role Prime Minister Imran Khan and General Bajwa are playing in support of peace in Afghanistan," it said.

They agreed that peace in Afghanistan offers an unprecedented opportunity to advance security, connectivity and development for the region, it said.

Earlier, the Pakistan Army said on Sunday that "matters of mutual interest, overall regional security situation, including Afghan refugees issue/Afghan reconciliation process and Pak-Afghan border management were discussed"&nbsp;in the meeting. 
It said that the two sides shared steps taken towards this and agreed to continue working towards mutually agreed goals, it said.

Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations during his meeting with Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, the American embassy in Islamabad said on Monday.

Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations during his meeting with Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, the American embassy in Islamabad said on Monday. Khalilzad visited Islamabad on Sunday and held talks with Bajwa on the Afghan peace process. He is travelling to Qatar, Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of efforts to bring peace in the war-torn country. Also read: Intra-Afghan talks to be held in Doha During the three-nation tour, Khalilzad will review commitments in the recently signed US-Taliban Agreement and the US-Afghanistan Joint Declaration, specifically reducing violence and prisoner releases. The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001. The US embassy said in a statement that in the meeting with General Bajwa, Ambassador Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of intra-Afghan negotiations. Also read: Afghanistan warns of 'disaster' as virus infections surge "The two took note of recent progress created by the Eid ceasefire and accelerated prisoner releases as well as reduced violence ahead of intra-Afghan negotiations," it said. Khalilzad "expressed his appreciation for the role Prime Minister Imran Khan and General Bajwa are playing in support of peace in Afghanistan," it said. They agreed that peace in Afghanistan offers an unprecedented opportunity to advance security, connectivity and development for the region, it said. Earlier, the Pakistan Army said on Sunday that "matters of mutual interest, overall regional security situation, including Afghan refugees issue/Afghan reconciliation process and Pak-Afghan border management were discussed" in the meeting. It said that the two sides shared steps taken towards this and agreed to continue working towards mutually agreed goals, it said.

US spl envoy Khalilzad, Pak Army chief Bajwa discuss Afghan peace process

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday arrived in Kabul to meet Afghan leaders to discuss the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-special-envoy-zalmay-khalilzad-briefs-pakistan-on-taliban-peace-talks-268258">Taliban peace talks</a> that were put to rest after a suicide attack was carried out last week by the Taliban near a US airbase. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-braces-for-political-uncertainty-in-elections-wake-254388">Mujib&nbsp;Rahman Rahimi</a>, Chief Executive Officer of Afghanistan informed about Khalilzad's visit in the war-torn country to resume the stalled negotiations of the Afghan peace talks, reported Tolo news. 
 
Earlier, United States negotiators took a brief pause from the talks with the Taliban in the wake of a suicide attack carried out by the group near US airbase in Afghanistan that claimed two lives. 
 
Last week, Khalilzad was in Islamabad to discuss the latest development of the Afghan peace talks with Pakistan. 
 
The earlier negotiation between the two sides was called off by US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-announces-a-pause-in-peace-talks-with-taliban-after-airbase-attack-267989">Donald Trump</a> over repeated attacks by the group, even an agreement had been reached upon "in principle" the two sides.

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday arrived in Kabul to meet Afghan leaders to discuss the Taliban peace talks that were put to rest after a suicide attack was carried out last week by the Taliban near a US airbase.

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday arrived in Kabul to meet Afghan leaders to discuss the Taliban peace talks that were put to rest after a suicide attack was carried out last week by the Taliban near a US airbase. Mujib Rahman Rahimi, Chief Executive Officer of Afghanistan informed about Khalilzad's visit in the war-torn country to resume the stalled negotiations of the Afghan peace talks, reported Tolo news. Earlier, United States negotiators took a brief pause from the talks with the Taliban in the wake of a suicide attack carried out by the group near US airbase in Afghanistan that claimed two lives. Last week, Khalilzad was in Islamabad to discuss the latest development of the Afghan peace talks with Pakistan. The earlier negotiation between the two sides was called off by US President Donald Trump over repeated attacks by the group, even an agreement had been reached upon "in principle" the two sides.

US peace envoy Khalilzad in Kabul to meet Afghan leaders over peace talks

The Taliban said Friday it was "way too early" to speak of resuming direct talks with Washington, a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-wants-to-make-a-deal-trump-in-afghanistan-265151">President Donald Trump </a>suggested negotiations to end America's longest war were back on track during a surprise visit to Afghanistan.

"It is way too early to talk about the resumption of talks for now. We will give our official reaction later," the Islamist group's official spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, told AFP in a WhatsApp message.

Trump on Thursday had said the Taliban "wants to make a deal".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! <a href="https://t.co/7SGZnHindW">pic.twitter.com/7SGZnHindW</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1200168067075981313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"We're meeting with them and we're saying it has to be a ceasefire," he told reporters during his unannounced trip to Bagram Airfield, outside the capital Kabul, to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with the troops.

His statement suggested progress after his shock decision in September to end negotiations with the insurgents just as Washington appeared on the verge of signing a deal with the Taliban that would have seen the US begin pulling troops out of Afghanistan in return for security guarantees.

The deal was expected to pave a way towards direct talks between the Taliban and the government in Kabul.

But Trump described the year-long effort as "dead" and withdrew an invitation to the insurgents to meet in the United States due to the killing of an American soldier.

Both Washington and the Taliban had left the door open for talks to resume, however, with most observers agreeing that a political settlement is the only way to reach a lasting peace in Afghanistan after 18 years of war.

The Taliban said Friday it was "way too early" to speak of resuming direct talks with Washington, a day after President Donald Trump suggested negotiations to end America's longest war were back on track during a surprise visit to Afghanistan.

The Taliban said Friday it was "way too early" to speak of resuming direct talks with Washington, a day after President Donald Trump suggested negotiations to end America's longest war were back on track during a surprise visit to Afghanistan. "It is way too early to talk about the resumption of talks for now. We will give our official reaction later," the Islamist group's official spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, told AFP in a WhatsApp message. Trump on Thursday had said the Taliban "wants to make a deal". HAPPY THANKSGIVING! pic.twitter.com/7SGZnHindW — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 28, 2019 × "We're meeting with them and we're saying it has to be a ceasefire," he told reporters during his unannounced trip to Bagram Airfield, outside the capital Kabul, to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with the troops. His statement suggested progress after his shock decision in September to end negotiations with the insurgents just as Washington appeared on the verge of signing a deal with the Taliban that would have seen the US begin pulling troops out of Afghanistan in return for security guarantees. The deal was expected to pave a way towards direct talks between the Taliban and the government in Kabul. But Trump described the year-long effort as "dead" and withdrew an invitation to the insurgents to meet in the United States due to the killing of an American soldier. Both Washington and the Taliban had left the door open for talks to resume, however, with most observers agreeing that a political settlement is the only way to reach a lasting peace in Afghanistan after 18 years of war.

After Trump’s statement, Taliban say 'way too early' to speak of resuming talks with US

An eight-member&nbsp;delegation from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-11-afghan-police-killed-in-taliban-attack-253019">Taliban</a> political office led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is set to arrive in Pakistan via Qatar Airways on Wednesday.

The Taliban delegation will meet Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and is expected to meet the United States and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) delegations during their stay in Pakistan.

The Taliban delegation has previously visited Russia, Iran and China and is now visiting Pakistan. This visit comes in the backdrop of the cancellation of US - Taliban talks,&nbsp;following the death of a US soldier and 11 other people in a Taliban bomb attack in Kabul

Pakistan supported the Taliban from the group's founding in the midst of Afghanistan's civil war in the early 1990s.

The United States and the US-backed Afghan government have for years suspected Pakistan has maintained its support for the militants, as a tool to block the spread of Indian influence in Afghanistan, despite Pakistani denials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/join-us-in-peace-or-we-will-continue-to-fight-afghanistan-government-to-taliban-at-un-252920">The Taliban delegation</a> would inform Pakistan's leadership of the factors that derailed the talks with the United States aimed at striking a deal allowing the US and other foreign troops to withdraw in exchange for Taliban security guarantees, said a Taliban official, who declined to be identified.

US and Taliban said last month they were close to reaching a deal, despite concern among some US security officials and within the Afghan government that a US withdrawal could plunge the country into even more conflict and open the way for a resurgence of Islamist militant factions.

The Taliban also planned to follow up on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-try-to-persuade-taliban-to-hold-talks-with-afghan-government-imran-khan-251858">Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's</a> recent comments ahead of a meeting in New York with Trump, that he would try to convince the president to re-enter talks, the Taliban official said.

(With inputs from Reuters)

An eight-member delegation from the Taliban political office led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is set to arrive in Pakistan via Qatar Airways on Wednesday. The Taliban delegation will meet Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and is expected to meet the United States and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) delegations during their stay in Pakistan.

An eight-member delegation from the Taliban political office led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is set to arrive in Pakistan via Qatar Airways on Wednesday. The Taliban delegation will meet Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and is expected to meet the United States and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) delegations during their stay in Pakistan. The Taliban delegation has previously visited Russia, Iran and China and is now visiting Pakistan. This visit comes in the backdrop of the cancellation of US - Taliban talks, following the death of a US soldier and 11 other people in a Taliban bomb attack in Kabul Pakistan supported the Taliban from the group's founding in the midst of Afghanistan's civil war in the early 1990s. The United States and the US-backed Afghan government have for years suspected Pakistan has maintained its support for the militants, as a tool to block the spread of Indian influence in Afghanistan, despite Pakistani denials. The Taliban delegation would inform Pakistan's leadership of the factors that derailed the talks with the United States aimed at striking a deal allowing the US and other foreign troops to withdraw in exchange for Taliban security guarantees, said a Taliban official, who declined to be identified. US and Taliban said last month they were close to reaching a deal, despite concern among some US security officials and within the Afghan government that a US withdrawal could plunge the country into even more conflict and open the way for a resurgence of Islamist militant factions. The Taliban also planned to follow up on Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's recent comments ahead of a meeting in New York with Trump, that he would try to convince the president to re-enter talks, the Taliban official said. (With inputs from Reuters)

Taliban delegation to visit Pakistan and discuss failed Afghan peace talks

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-us-taliban-talks-cancelled-impact-on-india-248667">collapse of US–Taliban talks</a> is an untimely setback for Pakistan, which had hoped its efforts to bring the militants to the table would be rewarded with an economic boost and American support over Kashmir.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has promised to issue a rallying cry at the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week over India's moves in the Himalayan region, which he has described as ethnic cleansing, and warned of "impending genocide".

But Pakistan, long condemned for its support for militant groups, needs political capital if it is to sway a global community that has been historically reluctant to challenge New Delhi over Kashmir.

Helping the United States with its fervent wish to leave Afghanistan after nearly 18 years of war was widely seen as an opportunity to get back into Washington's good books after years of being accused of duplicity.

For a brief moment in July, it appeared to be working.

President Donald Trump delighted Khan in Washington by declaring his willingness to mediate on Kashmir.

New Delhi repeated its position that Kashmir is a purely bilateral issue with Islamabad and dismissed the possibility of foreign mediation, but still, Pakistan's star once again appeared on the rise in Washington.

The relief was short-lived.

Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government abrogated article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The move ignited outrage in Pakistan. And as Islamabad scrambled to win international support for its position on Kashmir, in a separate twist, Trump abruptly called off talks with the Taliban, blowing up nearly a year of painstaking efforts to secure a deal that would have seen the beginning of US troop withdrawal.

Pakistan has for years called for a political solution in Afghanistan and had used its influence over the Taliban to help facilitate talks with the United States, hoping a successful outcome would help generate diplomatic capital.

"Until Pakistan gets Afghanistan settled, they are not going to find it easy to respond to India's action in Kashmir so they are certainly in a bit of a bind," Expert Myra MacDonald told AFP.

Khan told reporters last week that he will meet with the US President on Monday to urge a resumption of talks with the Taliban.

Khan will take zero comfort from Trump’s beaming participation in a massive "Howdy Modi" rally in Texas on Sunday, during which the Indian leader offered a staunch and unchallenged defence of his move in Kashmir and took several, thinly-veiled swipes at Pakistan as a sponsor of terrorism.

Trump told the 50,000 crowd of mostly Indian-Americans that Modi was doing an "exceptional job".

Tough times

The talks collapse comes at an especially delicate time in Pakistan, where frustrations are mounting just a year into Khan's rule with the economy under immense stress, and officials are struggling to raise revenues while slashing spending under an International Monetary Fund bailout agreement.

They are also bracing for a decision next month by the Financial Action Task Force, an anti-money-laundering monitor based in Paris that has threatened to blacklist Pakistan for failing to combat terror financing.

"Pakistan remains in dire financial straits and could really use some goodwill from the US and its allies," Graeme Smith, a consultant with International Crisis Group, told AFP.

The end of the Taliban talks, and the sudden uncertainty about how Islamabad is viewed by the mercurial Trump administration suggest American help in easing Pakistan's financial pain may be difficult to come by.

"Pakistan has invested a lot in these talks," said analyst Zahid Hussain.

"This abrupt ending... is a setback."

'Considerable influence'

Khan now faces the unsavoury task of weathering increased pressure from a White House more interested in Afghanistan than Kashmir.

Kabul and Washington have long accused Pakistan of sheltering and supporting the Taliban, an allegation it denies.

Security expert Rahimullah Yusufzai said that with talks off, Washington is likely to increase pressure on Islamabad once against to clamp down on the Taliban.

The militant group has vowed more violence but left the door open for talks, while the US has insisted they meet certain conditions first.

"It will be a 'do more' sort of situation" for Pakistan, Yusufzai explained.

But Pakistani military expert Ayesha Siddiqa argued that Islamabad still has a card to play.

"They have considerable influence to talk to the Taliban if not to make them act totally according to Islamabad's wishes," she said.

"They can try to convince them." 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The collapse of US–Taliban talks is an untimely setback for Pakistan, which had hoped its efforts to bring the militants to the table would be rewarded with an economic boost and American support over Kashmir.

The collapse of US–Taliban talks is an untimely setback for Pakistan, which had hoped its efforts to bring the militants to the table would be rewarded with an economic boost and American support over Kashmir. Prime Minister Imran Khan has promised to issue a rallying cry at the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week over India's moves in the Himalayan region, which he has described as ethnic cleansing, and warned of "impending genocide". But Pakistan, long condemned for its support for militant groups, needs political capital if it is to sway a global community that has been historically reluctant to challenge New Delhi over Kashmir. Helping the United States with its fervent wish to leave Afghanistan after nearly 18 years of war was widely seen as an opportunity to get back into Washington's good books after years of being accused of duplicity. For a brief moment in July, it appeared to be working. President Donald Trump delighted Khan in Washington by declaring his willingness to mediate on Kashmir. New Delhi repeated its position that Kashmir is a purely bilateral issue with Islamabad and dismissed the possibility of foreign mediation, but still, Pakistan's star once again appeared on the rise in Washington. The relief was short-lived. Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government abrogated article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The move ignited outrage in Pakistan. And as Islamabad scrambled to win international support for its position on Kashmir, in a separate twist, Trump abruptly called off talks with the Taliban, blowing up nearly a year of painstaking efforts to secure a deal that would have seen the beginning of US troop withdrawal. Pakistan has for years called for a political solution in Afghanistan and had used its influence over the Taliban to help facilitate talks with the United States, hoping a successful outcome would help generate diplomatic capital. "Until Pakistan gets Afghanistan settled, they are not going to find it easy to respond to India's action in Kashmir so they are certainly in a bit of a bind," Expert Myra MacDonald told AFP. Khan told reporters last week that he will meet with the US President on Monday to urge a resumption of talks with the Taliban. Khan will take zero comfort from Trump’s beaming participation in a massive "Howdy Modi" rally in Texas on Sunday, during which the Indian leader offered a staunch and unchallenged defence of his move in Kashmir and took several, thinly-veiled swipes at Pakistan as a sponsor of terrorism. Trump told the 50,000 crowd of mostly Indian-Americans that Modi was doing an "exceptional job". Tough times The talks collapse comes at an especially delicate time in Pakistan, where frustrations are mounting just a year into Khan's rule with the economy under immense stress, and officials are struggling to raise revenues while slashing spending under an International Monetary Fund bailout agreement. They are also bracing for a decision next month by the Financial Action Task Force, an anti-money-laundering monitor based in Paris that has threatened to blacklist Pakistan for failing to combat terror financing. "Pakistan remains in dire financial straits and could really use some goodwill from the US and its allies," Graeme Smith, a consultant with International Crisis Group, told AFP. The end of the Taliban talks, and the sudden uncertainty about how Islamabad is viewed by the mercurial Trump administration suggest American help in easing Pakistan's financial pain may be difficult to come by. "Pakistan has invested a lot in these talks," said analyst Zahid Hussain. "This abrupt ending... is a setback." 'Considerable influence' Khan now faces the unsavoury task of weathering increased pressure from a White House more interested in Afghanistan than Kashmir. Kabul and Washington have long accused Pakistan of sheltering and supporting the Taliban, an allegation it denies. Security expert Rahimullah Yusufzai said that with talks off, Washington is likely to increase pressure on Islamabad once against to clamp down on the Taliban. The militant group has vowed more violence but left the door open for talks, while the US has insisted they meet certain conditions first. "It will be a 'do more' sort of situation" for Pakistan, Yusufzai explained. But Pakistani military expert Ayesha Siddiqa argued that Islamabad still has a card to play. "They have considerable influence to talk to the Taliban if not to make them act totally according to Islamabad's wishes," she said. "They can try to convince them."

Collapse of US-Taliban talks an awkward blow for Pakistan

Two American service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, the NATO press office said without elaborating.

The names of the US&nbsp;service members killed in action were being withheld until after their relatives were notified, in accordance with Pentagon policy, it said.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the US&nbsp;military role in Afghanistan has basically turned into a "ridiculous" police force in a sign that he is open to a US&nbsp;troop drawdown there after 18 years of war.

Trump was briefed on Friday by top national security aides on a peace plan being negotiated by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-negotiator-zalmay-khalilzad-returning-to-doha-for-more-talks-244510">US&nbsp;envoy Zalmay Khalilzad</a> with leaders of the Afghanistan government and the Taliban.

"We're having good discussions. We'll see what happens. It's 18 years. We're not really fighting. We're almost a police force over there. We're not supposed to be a police force," he said.

Some 14,000 US&nbsp;troops remain engaged in America’s longest war, training and advising Afghan security forces and conducting counterinsurgency operations against militant groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State’s local affiliate.

A pullout has raised fears within the US&nbsp;military and among some lawmakers that Afghanistan could plunge into a new civil war that could see a return of Taliban rule and give al Qaeda and other militants a sanctuary in which to expand and plot new attacks on US&nbsp;and allied targets.

Khalilzad was travelling on Tuesday to resume talks with the Taliban in Doha, Qatar, "as part of an overall effort to facilitate a peace process that ends the conflict in Afghanistan," the State Department said in a statement.&nbsp;

Khalilzad will consult with leaders of the Afghan government in Kabul and encourage negotiations between the two sides, it said.

Two American service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, the NATO press office said without elaborating. The names of the US service members killed in action were being withheld until after their relatives were notified, in accordance with Pentagon policy, it said.

Two American service members were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday, the NATO press office said without elaborating. The names of the US service members killed in action were being withheld until after their relatives were notified, in accordance with Pentagon policy, it said. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday the US military role in Afghanistan has basically turned into a "ridiculous" police force in a sign that he is open to a US troop drawdown there after 18 years of war. Trump was briefed on Friday by top national security aides on a peace plan being negotiated by US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad with leaders of the Afghanistan government and the Taliban. "We're having good discussions. We'll see what happens. It's 18 years. We're not really fighting. We're almost a police force over there. We're not supposed to be a police force," he said. Some 14,000 US troops remain engaged in America’s longest war, training and advising Afghan security forces and conducting counterinsurgency operations against militant groups such as al Qaeda and Islamic State’s local affiliate. A pullout has raised fears within the US military and among some lawmakers that Afghanistan could plunge into a new civil war that could see a return of Taliban rule and give al Qaeda and other militants a sanctuary in which to expand and plot new attacks on US and allied targets. Khalilzad was travelling on Tuesday to resume talks with the Taliban in Doha, Qatar, "as part of an overall effort to facilitate a peace process that ends the conflict in Afghanistan," the State Department said in a statement. Khalilzad will consult with leaders of the Afghan government in Kabul and encourage negotiations between the two sides, it said.

Two US service members killed in Afghanistan: NATO

Taliban, the Afghan insurgent group which is designated as a terror group by several countries, has added its two cents on the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abrogation-of-article-370-pakistan-downgrades-ties-with-india-looks-towards-china-for-support-241399">India-Pakistan tensions</a> in the backdrop of New Delhi removing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-35a-370-acted-as-a-tool-to-spread-terrorism-and-violence-in-valley-pm-modi-241575">special status for Jammu and Kashmir</a>.

The group in a release, while expressing its concerns on India's decision, urged both "India and Pakistan to refrain from taking steps that could pave a way for violence and complications in the region" 
&nbsp; 
The group explained that it&nbsp;"having gained bitter experiences from war and conflict"&nbsp;requests&nbsp;"peace and use of rational pathways to solve regional issues.

Taliban which&nbsp;controlled&nbsp;a major portion of Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001 also slammed&nbsp;Islamabad for linking the Afghan peace process with developments in Kashmir.&nbsp;

It said, "Linking the issue of Kashmir with that of Afghanistan by some parties will not aid in improving the crisis at hand because the issue is not related nor should Afghanistan be turned into the theatre of competition between other countries."

Remember earlier this month Pakistan linked Afghan peace process with the situation at the line of control.

Speaking to a Pakistani media channel, Pakistan Foreign Minister SM Qureshi&nbsp;said, "Afghan&nbsp;peace process is going through a critical stage...the action by the Indian army is a distraction. These spoilers can impact peace."

The last time such a statement was made, Kabul summoned Pakistani envoy to&nbsp;Afghanistan.

In February, in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed, the Pakistani envoy to Kabul Zahid Nasrullah linked any response by Indian army impacting the&nbsp;Afghan&nbsp;peace process.

Taliban is currently in talks with the US in Doha over an agreement that can see American troops leaving the landlock south Asian country. US special envoy on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad who is leading the talks from American side was recently in Delhi and said India has an important role to play in the Afghan peace process.&nbsp;

Taliban, the Afghan insurgent group which is designated as a terror group by several countries, has added its two cents on the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions in the backdrop of New Delhi removing a special status for Jammu and Kashmir.

Taliban, the Afghan insurgent group which is designated as a terror group by several countries, has added its two cents on the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions in the backdrop of New Delhi removing a special status for Jammu and Kashmir. The group in a release, while expressing its concerns on India's decision, urged both "India and Pakistan to refrain from taking steps that could pave a way for violence and complications in the region" The group explained that it "having gained bitter experiences from war and conflict" requests "peace and use of rational pathways to solve regional issues. Taliban which controlled a major portion of Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001 also slammed Islamabad for linking the Afghan peace process with developments in Kashmir. It said, "Linking the issue of Kashmir with that of Afghanistan by some parties will not aid in improving the crisis at hand because the issue is not related nor should Afghanistan be turned into the theatre of competition between other countries." Remember earlier this month Pakistan linked Afghan peace process with the situation at the line of control. Speaking to a Pakistani media channel, Pakistan Foreign Minister SM Qureshi said, "Afghan peace process is going through a critical stage...the action by the Indian army is a distraction. These spoilers can impact peace." The last time such a statement was made, Kabul summoned Pakistani envoy to Afghanistan. In February, in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed, the Pakistani envoy to Kabul Zahid Nasrullah linked any response by Indian army impacting the Afghan peace process. Taliban is currently in talks with the US in Doha over an agreement that can see American troops leaving the landlock south Asian country. US special envoy on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad who is leading the talks from American side was recently in Delhi and said India has an important role to play in the Afghan peace process.

Taliban slams Pakistan for linking Kashmir with Afghan peace process

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-special-representative-arrives-in-doha-for-us-taliban-peace-talks-240395"> US and the Taliban </a>will seek to thrash out elements of a deal to bring a close to Afghanistan's 18-year conflict in the second day of renewed talks in Doha on Sunday.

The US, which invaded Afghanistan and toppled the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-indicated-a-willingness-to-strike-a-peace-deal-khalilzad-240391">Taliban</a> in 2001, wants to withdraw thousands of troops and turn the page on its longest-ever war.

But it would first seek assurances from the insurgents that they would renounce Al-Qaeda and stop other militants like the Islamic State group using the country as a haven.

The talks, now in their eighth round, began on Saturday and were due to resume Sunday morning after pausing overnight, US and Taliban sources told AFP.

A Taliban source also said efforts were underway to organise a direct meeting between US envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad and Taliban co-founder Mullah Baradar, who heads the movement's political wing.

A coalition led by Washington ousted the Taliban in late 2001 accusing it of harbouring Al-Qaeda jihadists who claimed the September 11 attacks against the US that killed almost 3,000 people.

But despite a rapid conclusion to the conventional phase of the war, the Taliban have proved formidable insurgents, bogging down US troops for years.

Washington is hoping to strike a peace deal with the Taliban by September 1 -- ahead of Afghan polls due the same month, and US presidential elections due in 2020.

US President Donald Trump told reporters at the White House on Friday that "we've made a lot of progress. We're talking".&nbsp;

"We are pursuing a peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement, a peace agreement that enables withdrawal," Khalilzad tweeted on Friday as he arrived in Doha after talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad.

"Our presence in Afghanistan is conditions-based, and any withdrawal will be conditions-based."

In another sign of progress, the Afghan government has formed a negotiating team for separate peace talks with the Taliban that diplomats hope could be held as early as later this month.

- 'Negotiations will be tough' -

The Washington Post reported Thursday that an initial deal to end the war would see the US force in Afghanistan reduced to as low as 8,000 from the current level of around 14,000.

In exchange, the Taliban would abide by a ceasefire, renounce Al-Qaeda, and talk to the Kabul administration.

An Afghan official hinted last week that the government of President Ashraf Ghani was preparing for direct talks with the Taliban, the details of which have yet to be announced.

"We have no preconditions to begin talks, but the peace agreement is not without conditions," Ghani wrote in Pashto on his Facebook page on Friday ahead of the talks.

"We want a republic government not an emirate," he said, a challenge to the Taliban which has insisted on reverting to the "Islamic Emirate" name Afghanistan bore under its rule.

"The negotiations will be tough, and the Taliban should know that no Afghan is inferior in religion or courage to them."

The thorny issues of power-sharing with the Taliban, the role of regional powers including Pakistan and India, and the fate of Ghani's administration also remain unresolved.

The latest US-Taliban encounter follows last month's talks between influential Afghans and the Taliban which agreed a "roadmap for peace" -- but stopped short of calling for a ceasefire.

Kabul resident Somaya Mustafa, 20, said her country desperately needed a peace deal, but only one in which the Taliban "accept women and their achievements".&nbsp;

"It is a total mess in our country right now. And if it continues, women will suffer more than anyone else."&nbsp;

The United Nations has said that civilian casualty rates across Afghanistan matched record levels last month, following a dip earlier in the year.

The US and the Taliban will seek to thrash out elements of a deal to bring a close to Afghanistan's 18-year conflict in the second day of renewed talks in Doha on Sunday.

The US and the Taliban will seek to thrash out elements of a deal to bring a close to Afghanistan's 18-year conflict in the second day of renewed talks in Doha on Sunday. The US, which invaded Afghanistan and toppled the Taliban in 2001, wants to withdraw thousands of troops and turn the page on its longest-ever war. But it would first seek assurances from the insurgents that they would renounce Al-Qaeda and stop other militants like the Islamic State group using the country as a haven. The talks, now in their eighth round, began on Saturday and were due to resume Sunday morning after pausing overnight, US and Taliban sources told AFP. A Taliban source also said efforts were underway to organise a direct meeting between US envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad and Taliban co-founder Mullah Baradar, who heads the movement's political wing. A coalition led by Washington ousted the Taliban in late 2001 accusing it of harbouring Al-Qaeda jihadists who claimed the September 11 attacks against the US that killed almost 3,000 people. But despite a rapid conclusion to the conventional phase of the war, the Taliban have proved formidable insurgents, bogging down US troops for years. Washington is hoping to strike a peace deal with the Taliban by September 1 -- ahead of Afghan polls due the same month, and US presidential elections due in 2020. US President Donald Trump told reporters at the White House on Friday that "we've made a lot of progress. We're talking". "We are pursuing a peace agreement not a withdrawal agreement, a peace agreement that enables withdrawal," Khalilzad tweeted on Friday as he arrived in Doha after talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad. "Our presence in Afghanistan is conditions-based, and any withdrawal will be conditions-based." In another sign of progress, the Afghan government has formed a negotiating team for separate peace talks with the Taliban that diplomats hope could be held as early as later this month. - 'Negotiations will be tough' - The Washington Post reported Thursday that an initial deal to end the war would see the US force in Afghanistan reduced to as low as 8,000 from the current level of around 14,000. In exchange, the Taliban would abide by a ceasefire, renounce Al-Qaeda, and talk to the Kabul administration. An Afghan official hinted last week that the government of President Ashraf Ghani was preparing for direct talks with the Taliban, the details of which have yet to be announced. "We have no preconditions to begin talks, but the peace agreement is not without conditions," Ghani wrote in Pashto on his Facebook page on Friday ahead of the talks. "We want a republic government not an emirate," he said, a challenge to the Taliban which has insisted on reverting to the "Islamic Emirate" name Afghanistan bore under its rule. "The negotiations will be tough, and the Taliban should know that no Afghan is inferior in religion or courage to them." The thorny issues of power-sharing with the Taliban, the role of regional powers including Pakistan and India, and the fate of Ghani's administration also remain unresolved. The latest US-Taliban encounter follows last month's talks between influential Afghans and the Taliban which agreed a "roadmap for peace" -- but stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. Kabul resident Somaya Mustafa, 20, said her country desperately needed a peace deal, but only one in which the Taliban "accept women and their achievements". "It is a total mess in our country right now. And if it continues, women will suffer more than anyone else." The United Nations has said that civilian casualty rates across Afghanistan matched record levels last month, following a dip earlier in the year.

US, Taliban push for peace in day 2 of renewed talks in Doha

Taliban militants killed at least 26 members of a pro-government militia in north Afghanistan on Saturday, government officials said, the same day the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-statestaliban-aim-to-firm-up-date-for-foreign-force-exit-from-afghanistan-230057">militants and US&nbsp;government officials </a>are due to start a new round of peace talks in Qatar.

Taliban officials claimed responsibility for the attack on the militiamen in Baghlan province. The militants said their fighters had killed 28 of the militia members and wounded 12.

Last September the US began a fresh push to bring the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;to the negotiating table to end America's longest war.

The peace talks in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-us-taliban-to-hold-more-talks-on-ending-war-229687">Afghanistan</a> have centred on four issues: counter-terrorism, the foreign troop presence, an intra-Afghan dialogue, and a permanent ceasefire.

US officials have previously said they are hoping for a deal before the upcoming Afghan presidential elections, which have already been delayed twice and are now set for September.

(With inputs from AFP, Reuters)

Taliban militants killed at least 26 members of a pro-government militia in north Afghanistan on Saturday, government officials said, the same day the militants and US government officials are due to start a new round of peace talks in Qatar.

Taliban militants killed at least 26 members of a pro-government militia in north Afghanistan on Saturday, government officials said, the same day the militants and US government officials are due to start a new round of peace talks in Qatar. Taliban officials claimed responsibility for the attack on the militiamen in Baghlan province. The militants said their fighters had killed 28 of the militia members and wounded 12. Last September the US began a fresh push to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table to end America's longest war. The peace talks in Afghanistan have centred on four issues: counter-terrorism, the foreign troop presence, an intra-Afghan dialogue, and a permanent ceasefire. US officials have previously said they are hoping for a deal before the upcoming Afghan presidential elections, which have already been delayed twice and are now set for September. (With inputs from AFP, Reuters)

Taliban kill 26 pro-government militia members in Afghanistan

The United States has urged for the involvement of Afghan women in the ongoing peace process and make sure that their voices are heard during the negotiations with the Taliban.

In a letter, members of the US Congress have told US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo that the Afghan women were excluded from the peace talks during the February and May peace negotiations between the US negotiators and the Taliban members in Doha, Tolo News reported.

"Yet during the February and May talks in Doha between American diplomates and the Taliban, Afghan women were not represented. Afghan women voices need to be heard - not just on women`s rights, but on the future of their country. We urge the State Department to protect Afghan women`s negotiation position and hard-won gains in all discussions with the Taliban," the letter read.

A copy of the letter, which has also been sent to the US Special Representative on Afghan peace, Zalmay Khalilzad, has further asked the State Department to make sure that the achievements of the Afghan women in the past 18 years should be protected.

US lawmakers quoting the US Institute of Peace have said more than 68,000 Afghan women are employed in schools and universities, at least 10,000 Afghan women are doctors and healthcare professionals, and Afghan women entrepreneurs have created roughly 77,000 jobs for Afghans which are big gains that must be preserved.

Farkhunda Zahra Naderi, a women`s rights activist and a former advisor to President Ashraf Ghani, said, "If you are not sitting around the table, you cannot remain in the government. Those who gather around the table, they make peace with each other; peace on their thoughts and peace on their different point of views. If you are not on the table, it means having a different point of view or having a shared point is not important."

"Afghan women have also called for their voices to be heard and today that the US Congress members have sent the letter. It is a positive step and it means that they completely support women`s participation," said Shinkai Karokhail, a member of the Afghan Parliament was quoted as saying.

In response to the calls, Khalilzad has said that women`s rights and achievements in war-ravaged Afghanistan will be protected.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United States has urged for the involvement of Afghan women in the ongoing peace process and make sure that their voices are heard during the negotiations with the Taliban.

The United States has urged for the involvement of Afghan women in the ongoing peace process and make sure that their voices are heard during the negotiations with the Taliban. In a letter, members of the US Congress have told US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo that the Afghan women were excluded from the peace talks during the February and May peace negotiations between the US negotiators and the Taliban members in Doha, Tolo News reported. "Yet during the February and May talks in Doha between American diplomates and the Taliban, Afghan women were not represented. Afghan women voices need to be heard - not just on women`s rights, but on the future of their country. We urge the State Department to protect Afghan women`s negotiation position and hard-won gains in all discussions with the Taliban," the letter read. A copy of the letter, which has also been sent to the US Special Representative on Afghan peace, Zalmay Khalilzad, has further asked the State Department to make sure that the achievements of the Afghan women in the past 18 years should be protected. US lawmakers quoting the US Institute of Peace have said more than 68,000 Afghan women are employed in schools and universities, at least 10,000 Afghan women are doctors and healthcare professionals, and Afghan women entrepreneurs have created roughly 77,000 jobs for Afghans which are big gains that must be preserved. Farkhunda Zahra Naderi, a women`s rights activist and a former advisor to President Ashraf Ghani, said, "If you are not sitting around the table, you cannot remain in the government. Those who gather around the table, they make peace with each other; peace on their thoughts and peace on their different point of views. If you are not on the table, it means having a different point of view or having a shared point is not important." "Afghan women have also called for their voices to be heard and today that the US Congress members have sent the letter. It is a positive step and it means that they completely support women`s participation," said Shinkai Karokhail, a member of the Afghan Parliament was quoted as saying. In response to the calls, Khalilzad has said that women`s rights and achievements in war-ravaged Afghanistan will be protected.

US urges inclusion of Afghan women in ongoing peace talks

The US envoy <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-leader-indicates-no-ceasefire-anytime-soon-223361">negotiating with the Taliban</a> will hold new talks this month with the insurgents in Qatar, the State Department said Saturday, as momentum builds for a deal to end America's longest war.

Zalmay Khalilzad, a veteran US policymaker who is leading President Donald Trump's push to broker a peace deal with the Taliban, left Friday on a 17-day trip that will also take him to Afghanistan, Pakistan, Germany, Belgium and the United Arab Emirates, the State Department said.

In Doha, he will resume talks with the Taliban after a break of around a month "to move the peace process forward," the State Department said in a statement.

Khalilzad has already met six times with the Taliban in recent months as he looks to seal a deal under which the United States will pull out troops who were first deployed following the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The United States and the Taliban are believed to have largely agreed on the key demand of Washington from 2001 and again now -- that the Taliban not allow Afghanistan to be used by violent extremists.

But a major sticking point remains the refusal of the Taliban to negotiate with President Ashraf Ghani's government, which enjoys international support.

The Taliban, believing they have leverage on the military front, have also rejected Ghani's overtures for a nationwide ceasefire.

"No one should expect us to pour cold water on the heated battlefronts of jihad or forget our 40-year sacrifices before reaching our objectives," Taliban chief Haibatullah Akhundzada said in a rare message released Saturday.

In Kabul, Khalilzad will meet representatives of civil society and women's rights groups, which have been especially concerned about a larger role for the Taliban.

Khalilzad will "encourage all parties to work towards intra-Afghan negotiations that lead to a final peace settlement," the State Department said.

Germany, another of Khalilzad's stops, has voiced willingness to hold a meeting on peace in Afghanistan.

He will start his trip in Pakistan, the chief backer of the Taliban before September 11, which has used its contacts to facilitate the talks with the Taliban.

The US envoy negotiating with the Taliban will hold new talks this month with the insurgents in Qatar, the State Department said Saturday, as momentum builds for a deal to end America's longest war.

The US envoy negotiating with the Taliban will hold new talks this month with the insurgents in Qatar, the State Department said Saturday, as momentum builds for a deal to end America's longest war. Zalmay Khalilzad, a veteran US policymaker who is leading President Donald Trump's push to broker a peace deal with the Taliban, left Friday on a 17-day trip that will also take him to Afghanistan, Pakistan, Germany, Belgium and the United Arab Emirates, the State Department said. In Doha, he will resume talks with the Taliban after a break of around a month "to move the peace process forward," the State Department said in a statement. Khalilzad has already met six times with the Taliban in recent months as he looks to seal a deal under which the United States will pull out troops who were first deployed following the September 11, 2001 attacks. The United States and the Taliban are believed to have largely agreed on the key demand of Washington from 2001 and again now -- that the Taliban not allow Afghanistan to be used by violent extremists. But a major sticking point remains the refusal of the Taliban to negotiate with President Ashraf Ghani's government, which enjoys international support. The Taliban, believing they have leverage on the military front, have also rejected Ghani's overtures for a nationwide ceasefire. "No one should expect us to pour cold water on the heated battlefronts of jihad or forget our 40-year sacrifices before reaching our objectives," Taliban chief Haibatullah Akhundzada said in a rare message released Saturday. In Kabul, Khalilzad will meet representatives of civil society and women's rights groups, which have been especially concerned about a larger role for the Taliban. Khalilzad will "encourage all parties to work towards intra-Afghan negotiations that lead to a final peace settlement," the State Department said. Germany, another of Khalilzad's stops, has voiced willingness to hold a meeting on peace in Afghanistan. He will start his trip in Pakistan, the chief backer of the Taliban before September 11, which has used its contacts to facilitate the talks with the Taliban.

US heads to new talks with Taliban

American and Taliban officials resumed talks in Qatar to end a 17-year <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-military-stops-tracking-key-metric-on-afghan-war-as-situation-deteriorates-214936">war in Afghanistan</a> on Wednesday while the Afghan government hosted a rare assembly in Kabul to ensure its interests are upheld in any peace deal.

Afghan representatives were not allowed to attend the sixth round of US-Taliban talks in the Qatari capital, Doha, said Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the insurgent group.

"There will be no other side except the US&nbsp;and Taliban representatives in the meeting, but some Qatari officials will remain present as hosts," he told Reuters.

The talks are part of President Donald Trump`s efforts to end America`s longest war, which began when US-backed forces ousted the Taliban weeks after the September&nbsp;11, 2001, attacks on the United States.

Since October,<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-taliban-talks-peace-remains-a-distant-dream-for-afghanistan-213647&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjqxryYmfrhAhUc8XMBHUSGCbgQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1INTrcmp2Rx3qTOPgE-vxr"> US&nbsp;and Taliban officials have held several rounds of talks</a> aimed at ensuring a safe exit for US&nbsp;forces in return for a Taliban guarantee that Afghanistan will not be used by militants to threaten the rest of the world.

In this round, US&nbsp;special envoy for peace in Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad and his delegation are expected to focus on a declaration of a ceasefire as a first step to end the fighting, said a western diplomat in Kabul.

An official working closely with Khalilzad said he is expected to encourage the insurgent group to engage in Afghan-to-Afghan talks to find a political settlement to end the war.

This week, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani convened a rare grand assembly known as the Loya Jirga to set out Kabul`s conditions for peace talks with the Taliban.

The Jirga has a purely consultative function, but it carries significance in Afghan politics and society.&nbsp;

The Taliban has so far refused to talk to Kabul and have labelled the Afghan government as a "US&nbsp;puppet."

Ghani believes that backing from members of the Loya Jirga will strengthen his bid to be recognised as Afghanistan`s legitimate representative in the peace talks.

The assembly includes 3,200 tribal elders, politicians and community and religious leaders from all 34 provinces.

But opposition politicians and government critics, including former president Hamid Karzai, are boycotting the meeting.

They accuse Ghani of using it as a platform to boost his status as a leader in an election year.

Omar Daudzai, Ghani`s special envoy for peace, said at the assembly he welcomed the US-Taliban talks in Qatar but Afghan voices should be heard at the negotiating table.&nbsp;

"The Loya Jirga is the rational and logical start of the peace talks," he told reporters, adding that the assembly would also examine the role of foreign powers in Afghanistan.

The United States has about 14,000 troops in Afghanistan as part of a NATO-led mission, known as Resolute Support, that is training and assisting the Afghan government`s security forces in their battle against Taliban fighters and extremist groups such as Islamic State and Al-Qaeda. 
&nbsp;

American and Taliban officials resumed talks in Qatar to end a 17-year war in Afghanistan on Wednesday while the Afghan government hosted a rare assembly in Kabul to ensure its interests are upheld in any peace deal.

American and Taliban officials resumed talks in Qatar to end a 17-year war in Afghanistan on Wednesday while the Afghan government hosted a rare assembly in Kabul to ensure its interests are upheld in any peace deal. Afghan representatives were not allowed to attend the sixth round of US-Taliban talks in the Qatari capital, Doha, said Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesman for the insurgent group. "There will be no other side except the US and Taliban representatives in the meeting, but some Qatari officials will remain present as hosts," he told Reuters. The talks are part of President Donald Trump`s efforts to end America`s longest war, which began when US-backed forces ousted the Taliban weeks after the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States. Since October, US and Taliban officials have held several rounds of talks aimed at ensuring a safe exit for US forces in return for a Taliban guarantee that Afghanistan will not be used by militants to threaten the rest of the world. In this round, US special envoy for peace in Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad and his delegation are expected to focus on a declaration of a ceasefire as a first step to end the fighting, said a western diplomat in Kabul. An official working closely with Khalilzad said he is expected to encourage the insurgent group to engage in Afghan-to-Afghan talks to find a political settlement to end the war. This week, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani convened a rare grand assembly known as the Loya Jirga to set out Kabul`s conditions for peace talks with the Taliban. The Jirga has a purely consultative function, but it carries significance in Afghan politics and society. The Taliban has so far refused to talk to Kabul and have labelled the Afghan government as a "US puppet." Ghani believes that backing from members of the Loya Jirga will strengthen his bid to be recognised as Afghanistan`s legitimate representative in the peace talks. The assembly includes 3,200 tribal elders, politicians and community and religious leaders from all 34 provinces. But opposition politicians and government critics, including former president Hamid Karzai, are boycotting the meeting. They accuse Ghani of using it as a platform to boost his status as a leader in an election year. Omar Daudzai, Ghani`s special envoy for peace, said at the assembly he welcomed the US-Taliban talks in Qatar but Afghan voices should be heard at the negotiating table. "The Loya Jirga is the rational and logical start of the peace talks," he told reporters, adding that the assembly would also examine the role of foreign powers in Afghanistan. The United States has about 14,000 troops in Afghanistan as part of a NATO-led mission, known as Resolute Support, that is training and assisting the Afghan government`s security forces in their battle against Taliban fighters and extremist groups such as Islamic State and Al-Qaeda.

US-Taliban resume talks as Afghan government seeks role in peace process

The Trump administration wants to ensure that Afghanistan is never used as a safe haven for terrorists, Acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan has told President Ashraf Ghani during his surprise visit to the war-torn country to lead a push for<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-envoy-khalilzad-in-taliban-talks-seeks-peace-deal-before-afghanistans-presidential-elections-196133"> peace talks with the Taliban.</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-calls-recent-afghanistan-peace-talks-with-us-successful-report-195440">Shanahan held talks with Ghani </a>at the Presidential Palace on Monday to reaffirm his commitment to Afghanistan through the implementation of President Trump's South Asia strategy.

"The leaders discussed a broad range of defence issues, including the importance of the US-Afghanistan security relationship and of achieving a political settlement to the war that ensures Afghanistan is never again used as a safe haven from which terrorists can plan and launch terrorist attacks against the United States, our interests, and our allies," said Pentagon Spokesperson Cmdr Sean Robertson.

During the meeting, Shanahan praised the sacrifices made by Afghan and Coalition troops and reaffirmed America's continued support to Afghan forces as they lead the fight to defend their country.

Shanahan made a surprise trip to Afghanistan on Monday, his first-ever visit to the country where US troops have been stationed for 17 years.

President Donald Trump reportedly wants to cut in half the 14,000 American troops in Afghanistan, and the Taliban leaders have made a US withdrawal a key condition in peace negotiations.

Shanahan told reporters on Monday that he had no orders to reduce the American troop presence. He said that while the US had a key role to play, it is ultimately up to Afghans to find peace.

"The Afghans have to decide what Afghanistan looks like. It's not about the US, it's about Afghanistan," he said.

The Acting Defense chief's visit comes after the US held major talks with the Taliban officials in Qatar last month in an attempt to end the 17-year conflict.

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who is leading the talks, has expressed hope of finding a deal before Afghan presidential elections scheduled for July.

In a series of tweets after six days of talks with the Taliban representatives in Doha last month, Khalilzad said the US has made "significant progress" in its peace talks with the Taliban.

"We have a draft of the framework that has to be fleshed out before it becomes an agreement. The Taliban have committed, to our satisfaction, to do what is necessary that would prevent Afghanistan from ever becoming a platform for international terrorist groups or individuals," Khalilzad said at the time.

Since being appointed in September, Khalilzad has met with all sides in an attempt to end America's longest war in which the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers.

The US is expected to start the second round of talks with Taliban officials on February 25 in Qatar, where they have their political office.

The Afghan Taliban, however, has said that despite the ongoing talks with the US and other regional powers, it had "not yet reached" any conclusion that would entail an immediate end to hostilities against America and its allies.

The Taliban are holding talks with the United States "on their own initiative", Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid was recently quoted as saying by a TV channel.

The Taliban control nearly half of Afghanistan and are more powerful than at any time since the 2001 US-led invasion after the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001.

Meanwhile, Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna said that the US should continue supporting the Afghan government financially and diplomatically after leaving and include them in the peace process.

"We should continue supporting the Afghan government financially and diplomatically after leaving and include them in the peace process. The Afghans must eventually earn domestic legitimacy themselves, though," he said in an op-ed in USA Today.

Khanna said the biggest threat to democracy was not the Taliban, but staying economically competitive with authoritarian superpowers like China.

Responding to critics who argue that after the US withdrawal the Taliban might steamroll the Afghan government and then harbour terrorists, Khanna said preventing that outcome did not require a permanent US troop presence.

"Deterrence works. The Taliban should understand that the United States will use overwhelming force again if they harbour terrorists who directly threaten our homeland. Moreover, other 'ungoverned territories' exist where terrorists can operate. There, we conduct counterterrorism from the air without troop deployment," Khanna said.&nbsp;

The Trump administration wants to ensure that Afghanistan is never used as a safe haven for terrorists, Acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan has told President Ashraf Ghani during his surprise visit to the war-torn country to lead a push for peace talks with the Taliban.

The Trump administration wants to ensure that Afghanistan is never used as a safe haven for terrorists, Acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan has told President Ashraf Ghani during his surprise visit to the war-torn country to lead a push for peace talks with the Taliban. Shanahan held talks with Ghani at the Presidential Palace on Monday to reaffirm his commitment to Afghanistan through the implementation of President Trump's South Asia strategy. "The leaders discussed a broad range of defence issues, including the importance of the US-Afghanistan security relationship and of achieving a political settlement to the war that ensures Afghanistan is never again used as a safe haven from which terrorists can plan and launch terrorist attacks against the United States, our interests, and our allies," said Pentagon Spokesperson Cmdr Sean Robertson. During the meeting, Shanahan praised the sacrifices made by Afghan and Coalition troops and reaffirmed America's continued support to Afghan forces as they lead the fight to defend their country. Shanahan made a surprise trip to Afghanistan on Monday, his first-ever visit to the country where US troops have been stationed for 17 years. President Donald Trump reportedly wants to cut in half the 14,000 American troops in Afghanistan, and the Taliban leaders have made a US withdrawal a key condition in peace negotiations. Shanahan told reporters on Monday that he had no orders to reduce the American troop presence. He said that while the US had a key role to play, it is ultimately up to Afghans to find peace. "The Afghans have to decide what Afghanistan looks like. It's not about the US, it's about Afghanistan," he said. The Acting Defense chief's visit comes after the US held major talks with the Taliban officials in Qatar last month in an attempt to end the 17-year conflict. US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, who is leading the talks, has expressed hope of finding a deal before Afghan presidential elections scheduled for July. In a series of tweets after six days of talks with the Taliban representatives in Doha last month, Khalilzad said the US has made "significant progress" in its peace talks with the Taliban. "We have a draft of the framework that has to be fleshed out before it becomes an agreement. The Taliban have committed, to our satisfaction, to do what is necessary that would prevent Afghanistan from ever becoming a platform for international terrorist groups or individuals," Khalilzad said at the time. Since being appointed in September, Khalilzad has met with all sides in an attempt to end America's longest war in which the US has lost over 2,400 soldiers. The US is expected to start the second round of talks with Taliban officials on February 25 in Qatar, where they have their political office. The Afghan Taliban, however, has said that despite the ongoing talks with the US and other regional powers, it had "not yet reached" any conclusion that would entail an immediate end to hostilities against America and its allies. The Taliban are holding talks with the United States "on their own initiative", Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid was recently quoted as saying by a TV channel. The Taliban control nearly half of Afghanistan and are more powerful than at any time since the 2001 US-led invasion after the 9/11 terror attacks in 2001. Meanwhile, Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna said that the US should continue supporting the Afghan government financially and diplomatically after leaving and include them in the peace process. "We should continue supporting the Afghan government financially and diplomatically after leaving and include them in the peace process. The Afghans must eventually earn domestic legitimacy themselves, though," he said in an op-ed in USA Today. Khanna said the biggest threat to democracy was not the Taliban, but staying economically competitive with authoritarian superpowers like China. Responding to critics who argue that after the US withdrawal the Taliban might steamroll the Afghan government and then harbour terrorists, Khanna said preventing that outcome did not require a permanent US troop presence. "Deterrence works. The Taliban should understand that the United States will use overwhelming force again if they harbour terrorists who directly threaten our homeland. Moreover, other 'ungoverned territories' exist where terrorists can operate. There, we conduct counterterrorism from the air without troop deployment," Khanna said.

US wants to ensure, Afghanistan is not used as safe heaven for terrorists: Shanahan to Ghani

Peace negotiations are far from over: Khalilzad on Taliban peace talks

President Ashraf Ghani is being pushed to the sidelines as the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-taliban-cancel-peace-talks-with-us-citing-agenda-disagreement-189134"> Taliban ignores</a> his overtures for peace and negotiates instead with his friends, and enemies, over the future of Afghanistan.

From Doha to Moscow, the insurgents are meeting an array of envoys with competing interests in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-taliban-reject-talks-with-us-in-pakistan-191358">Afghanistan</a>, from the United States eager to withdraw their troops to political leaders in Kabul jostling for power.

Experts say regional powers — including US foes Iran and Russia — are angling for an audience with the Taliban, who are already outlining their vision for Islamic rule once foreign troops leave.

The elephant in the room is Ghani, whose US-backed administration has not been invited to the table, despite a failed year-long effort to spark a dialogue with the Taliban.

"The sad irony is that Afghanistan's government is in danger of getting written out of the script of its own peace process," analyst Michael Kugelman of the Wilson Center in Washington, DC, told AFP.

Ghani's allies in Washington insist Afghans should lead the peace process, and ostensibly the months-long push by the US to engage the Taliban has been aimed at convincing them to negotiate with the government in Kabul.

Those efforts culminated in an unprecedented six days of talks between the US and the Taliban in Doha in January.

The marathon negotiations ended with both sides touting "progress" — spurring Afghan fears the US could cut a deal with the militants to withdraw its forces before a lasting peace with Kabul is reached.

"It's a major snub because, without the Americans, the government in Kabul cannot survive," said Gilles Dorronsoro, a French researcher specialising in Afghanistan.

A week later, the Taliban agreed to a rare sit-down in Russia with some of Ghani's biggest political rivals.

The talks in Moscow hosted by an Afghan diaspora group in Russia — which are separate from the US negotiations — start Tuesday and would canvass the "end of occupation, enduring peace in homeland and establishment of an intra-Afghan Islamic system of governance", the Taliban said.

Frozen out for a second time, a furious Ghani vowed he would not be an idle spectator as his country's future was debated abroad.

"Even if I have one drop of blood in my body, I am not going to surrender to a temporary peace deal," he railed in a speech Sunday, as details of the Moscow conference broke.

The frustration and sense of betrayal in Kabul is palpable.

Amrullah Saleh, a Ghani ally, accused those Afghan leaders travelling to Moscow for the Taliban talks — including former president Hamid Karzai — of "begging to terrorists".

"A smile to the enemy is a blow to the national spirit," Saleh said.

"We appreciate the efforts, but any peace talks about Afghanistan should be under the umbrella of the Afghan government," Afghanistan's de facto prime minister Abdullah Abdullah said after the Doha talks.

'A new war'

The Taliban, who brutally ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001, has always refused to break bread with Ghani and Kabul, who they view as US stooges.

Instead, the insurgents are marching ahead with their diplomatic agenda.&nbsp;

The talks in Moscow would see an "opening of channels to reaching an understanding" with Afghan leaders outside government, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said.

Such a meeting between the Taliban and Afghan politicians — including Karzai, who was appointed by the US — is almost unheard of.

Ghani's rivals could see an opportunity in these various Taliban talks to undermine his leadership, analysts say, ahead of presidential elections slated for July.

The Taliban outreach is also drawing a host of rival powers into its orbit, all keen that any finale to the war suits their strategic ambitions.

Many of these present "a fundamental clash of vision and interests" for Afghanistan, said Davood Moradian, director of the Kabul-based Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies.

The US, Afghanistan, and India seek a stable democracy and a bulwark against terrorism, he said. The Taliban and Pakistan, conversely, seek an Islamic authority in Kabul.

A broader second group of "legitimate stakeholders and opportunistic spoilers" — including regional powers like Russia, China, and Iran — have their eyes keenly on waning US influence in the region, Moradian added.

Dorronsoro said the US-Taliban talks, which continue later this month, were an "acknowledgement of defeat" by Washington of its military campaign in the country that would not be missed by rivals Russia and Iran, who have also engaged with the insurgents.

The departure of US forces — if achieved under a deal with the Taliban — could draw the region into a "new war" for dominance in Afghanistan.

"India, Pakistan, Iran... everyone will choose sides. Today, nothing is clear. Everyone is in the process of positioning themselves," Dorronsoro said.

President Ashraf Ghani is being pushed to the sidelines as the Taliban ignores his overtures for peace and negotiates instead with his friends, and enemies, over the future of Afghanistan.

President Ashraf Ghani is being pushed to the sidelines as the Taliban ignores his overtures for peace and negotiates instead with his friends, and enemies, over the future of Afghanistan. From Doha to Moscow, the insurgents are meeting an array of envoys with competing interests in Afghanistan, from the United States eager to withdraw their troops to political leaders in Kabul jostling for power. Experts say regional powers — including US foes Iran and Russia — are angling for an audience with the Taliban, who are already outlining their vision for Islamic rule once foreign troops leave. The elephant in the room is Ghani, whose US-backed administration has not been invited to the table, despite a failed year-long effort to spark a dialogue with the Taliban. "The sad irony is that Afghanistan's government is in danger of getting written out of the script of its own peace process," analyst Michael Kugelman of the Wilson Center in Washington, DC, told AFP. Ghani's allies in Washington insist Afghans should lead the peace process, and ostensibly the months-long push by the US to engage the Taliban has been aimed at convincing them to negotiate with the government in Kabul. Those efforts culminated in an unprecedented six days of talks between the US and the Taliban in Doha in January. The marathon negotiations ended with both sides touting "progress" — spurring Afghan fears the US could cut a deal with the militants to withdraw its forces before a lasting peace with Kabul is reached. "It's a major snub because, without the Americans, the government in Kabul cannot survive," said Gilles Dorronsoro, a French researcher specialising in Afghanistan. A week later, the Taliban agreed to a rare sit-down in Russia with some of Ghani's biggest political rivals. The talks in Moscow hosted by an Afghan diaspora group in Russia — which are separate from the US negotiations — start Tuesday and would canvass the "end of occupation, enduring peace in homeland and establishment of an intra-Afghan Islamic system of governance", the Taliban said. Frozen out for a second time, a furious Ghani vowed he would not be an idle spectator as his country's future was debated abroad. "Even if I have one drop of blood in my body, I am not going to surrender to a temporary peace deal," he railed in a speech Sunday, as details of the Moscow conference broke. The frustration and sense of betrayal in Kabul is palpable. Amrullah Saleh, a Ghani ally, accused those Afghan leaders travelling to Moscow for the Taliban talks — including former president Hamid Karzai — of "begging to terrorists". "A smile to the enemy is a blow to the national spirit," Saleh said. "We appreciate the efforts, but any peace talks about Afghanistan should be under the umbrella of the Afghan government," Afghanistan's de facto prime minister Abdullah Abdullah said after the Doha talks. 'A new war' The Taliban, who brutally ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001, has always refused to break bread with Ghani and Kabul, who they view as US stooges. Instead, the insurgents are marching ahead with their diplomatic agenda. The talks in Moscow would see an "opening of channels to reaching an understanding" with Afghan leaders outside government, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said. Such a meeting between the Taliban and Afghan politicians — including Karzai, who was appointed by the US — is almost unheard of. Ghani's rivals could see an opportunity in these various Taliban talks to undermine his leadership, analysts say, ahead of presidential elections slated for July. The Taliban outreach is also drawing a host of rival powers into its orbit, all keen that any finale to the war suits their strategic ambitions. Many of these present "a fundamental clash of vision and interests" for Afghanistan, said Davood Moradian, director of the Kabul-based Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies. The US, Afghanistan, and India seek a stable democracy and a bulwark against terrorism, he said. The Taliban and Pakistan, conversely, seek an Islamic authority in Kabul. A broader second group of "legitimate stakeholders and opportunistic spoilers" — including regional powers like Russia, China, and Iran — have their eyes keenly on waning US influence in the region, Moradian added. Dorronsoro said the US-Taliban talks, which continue later this month, were an "acknowledgement of defeat" by Washington of its military campaign in the country that would not be missed by rivals Russia and Iran, who have also engaged with the insurgents. The departure of US forces — if achieved under a deal with the Taliban — could draw the region into a "new war" for dominance in Afghanistan. "India, Pakistan, Iran... everyone will choose sides. Today, nothing is clear. Everyone is in the process of positioning themselves," Dorronsoro said.

Taliban takes centre stage as Kabul cut out of peace talks

The Taliban on Tuesday cancelled the planned peace talks with the US officials in Qatar over an agenda disagreement.

The meeting was cancelled even after the change&nbsp;in the&nbsp;venue of the meet on the demands of the&nbsp;Taliban. The Taliban had earlier demanded a shift in the venue of the talks to Qatar.

"Both sides have agreed to not meet in Qatar," senior Taliban members based in Afghanistan told Reuters.

The meeting between the leaders of the two groups aimed at&nbsp;a discussion to end the possible ceasefire in 2019 and the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-urge-us-to-exit-afghanistan-or-face-soviet-style-defeat-186871">withdrawal of foreign forces</a>.

Talks had been planned for two days starting Wednesday in Qatar, senior Taliban members earlier told Reuters. The Taliban had rejected requests from regional powers to allow <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-launches-brutal-attack-on-afghan-army-182317">Afghan officials </a>to take part in the discussion.

The Taliban regards the United States as its main adversary in the Afghan war and views direct talks with Washington as a legitimate effort to seek the withdrawal of foreign troops before engaging with the Afghan government.

The war in Afghanistan is America's longest overseas military intervention. It has cost Washington nearly a trillion dollars and killed tens of thousands of people.

Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have intensified since Taliban representatives began meeting with Khalilzad, an Afghan-born, US diplomat last year. Officials from the warring sides have met at least three times, but fighting has not subsided.

The leaders of the Taliban have already refused to hold direct talks with Afghanistan government.

(With inputs from Reuters)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Taliban on Tuesday cancelled the planned peace talks with the US officials in Qatar over an agenda disagreement. The meeting was cancelled even after the change in the venue of the meet on the demands of the Taliban.

The Taliban on Tuesday cancelled the planned peace talks with the US officials in Qatar over an agenda disagreement. The meeting was cancelled even after the change in the venue of the meet on the demands of the Taliban. The Taliban had earlier demanded a shift in the venue of the talks to Qatar. "Both sides have agreed to not meet in Qatar," senior Taliban members based in Afghanistan told Reuters. The meeting between the leaders of the two groups aimed at a discussion to end the possible ceasefire in 2019 and the withdrawal of foreign forces. Talks had been planned for two days starting Wednesday in Qatar, senior Taliban members earlier told Reuters. The Taliban had rejected requests from regional powers to allow Afghan officials to take part in the discussion. The Taliban regards the United States as its main adversary in the Afghan war and views direct talks with Washington as a legitimate effort to seek the withdrawal of foreign troops before engaging with the Afghan government. The war in Afghanistan is America's longest overseas military intervention. It has cost Washington nearly a trillion dollars and killed tens of thousands of people. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have intensified since Taliban representatives began meeting with Khalilzad, an Afghan-born, US diplomat last year. Officials from the warring sides have met at least three times, but fighting has not subsided. The leaders of the Taliban have already refused to hold direct talks with Afghanistan government. (With inputs from Reuters)

Taliban call off peace talks with US officials

The Taliban have rejected Kabul's offer of talks next month in Saudi Arabia where the militants, fighting to restore strict Islamic law in Afghanistan, will meet US officials to further peace efforts, a Taliban leader said on Sunday.

Representatives from the Taliban, the United States and regional countries met this month in the United Arab Emirates for talks to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan.

But the Taliban have refused to hold formal talks with the Western-backed Afghan government.

"We will meet the US officials in Saudi Arabia in January next year and we will start our talks that remained incomplete in Abu Dhabi," a member of the Taliban’s decision-making Leadership Council told Reuters. "However, we have made it clear to all the stakeholders that we will not talk to the Afghan government."

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid also said the leaders of the group would not talk to the Afghan government.

The militants have insisted on first reaching an agreement with the United States, which the group sees as the main force in Afghanistan since U.S.-led forces toppled the Taliban government in 2001.&nbsp;

Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have intensified after Taliban representatives started meeting US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad this year. Officials from the warring sides have met at least three times to discuss the withdrawal of international forces and a ceasefire in 2019.&nbsp;

But the United States has insisted that any final settlement must be led by the Afghans.

According to data from the NATO-led Resolute Support mission published in November, the government of President Ashraf Ghani has control or influence over 65 per cent of the population but only 55.5 per cent of Afghanistan’s 407 districts, less than at any time since 2001. The Taliban say they control 70 per cent of the country.

A close aide to Ghani said the government would keep trying to establish a direct line of diplomatic communication with the Taliban.

"Talks should be Afghan-led and Afghan-owned," the aide said on condition of anonymity. "It is important that the Taliban acknowledge this fact."&nbsp; 
US President Donald Trump has announced a pullout of American troops from Syria, a decision that prompted the resignation of Defense Secretary James Mattis, and there have been reports that he is considering a partial pullout from Afghanistan.

The Taliban have rejected Kabul's offer of talks next month in Saudi Arabia where the militants, fighting to restore strict Islamic law in Afghanistan, will meet US officials to further peace efforts, a Taliban leader said on Sunday.

The Taliban have rejected Kabul's offer of talks next month in Saudi Arabia where the militants, fighting to restore strict Islamic law in Afghanistan, will meet US officials to further peace efforts, a Taliban leader said on Sunday. Representatives from the Taliban, the United States and regional countries met this month in the United Arab Emirates for talks to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan. But the Taliban have refused to hold formal talks with the Western-backed Afghan government. "We will meet the US officials in Saudi Arabia in January next year and we will start our talks that remained incomplete in Abu Dhabi," a member of the Taliban’s decision-making Leadership Council told Reuters. "However, we have made it clear to all the stakeholders that we will not talk to the Afghan government." Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid also said the leaders of the group would not talk to the Afghan government. The militants have insisted on first reaching an agreement with the United States, which the group sees as the main force in Afghanistan since U.S.-led forces toppled the Taliban government in 2001. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have intensified after Taliban representatives started meeting US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad this year. Officials from the warring sides have met at least three times to discuss the withdrawal of international forces and a ceasefire in 2019. But the United States has insisted that any final settlement must be led by the Afghans. According to data from the NATO-led Resolute Support mission published in November, the government of President Ashraf Ghani has control or influence over 65 per cent of the population but only 55.5 per cent of Afghanistan’s 407 districts, less than at any time since 2001. The Taliban say they control 70 per cent of the country. A close aide to Ghani said the government would keep trying to establish a direct line of diplomatic communication with the Taliban. "Talks should be Afghan-led and Afghan-owned," the aide said on condition of anonymity. "It is important that the Taliban acknowledge this fact." US President Donald Trump has announced a pullout of American troops from Syria, a decision that prompted the resignation of Defense Secretary James Mattis, and there have been reports that he is considering a partial pullout from Afghanistan.

Taliban dismiss Afghanistan's peace talks offer

WION Gravitas: India participates in Afghan peace summit at 'non-official' level