Taliban eager for peace negotiations, claims Massoud

KABUL had shown eagerness to sit with the government for peace talks.

Massoud said the government was also prepared for negotiations and expressed optimism that developments in this connection would likely take place in a month time.

He added members of the unity government were of the same opinion when it came to peace process.

Speaking at a sapling plantation drive in Kabul, he said: “We are optimistic that in the coming year we will witness developments in peace building, security and stability in the country.”

Earlier, a Pakistani media reported that Afghan government and the Taliban were preparing to hold face-to-face talks in the next few days as a result of efforts by Pakistan and other stakeholders.

The Express Tribune reported the two sides had been in contact but it was the first time that they would sit across the negotiating table to discuss the future of Afghanistan.

Sartaj Aziz, Pakistani prime minister’s adviser on national security and foreign affairs, also confirmed on Tuesday that the Afghan government and the Taliban were holding negotiations.

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