First day passes off peacefully

KABUL on the proposed strategic cooperation pact with the United States and a mechanism for the peace negotiations with Afghan militants passed off peacefully.

The Jirga commenced amid tight security in Kabul at 10:30am on Wednesday. The chairman, his two deputies, as many secretaries and a spokesperson for the four-day assembly were appointed on the opening day.

More than 2,000 people, including sitting and former parliamentarians, percent members of each provincial council, representatives of civil society and special people, religious scholars and influential tribal elders are debating the pros and cons of the agreement.

Involving a total of 2,030 participants, 18 percent of them women is being attended by Cabinet ministers and foreign dignitaries as guests.

Speaking at a news conference, an interior ministry spokesman said there were no security incidents on day one of the long-awaited event.

Ghulam Siddique Siddiqui added that Afghan police and army were trying their best to ensure airtight security of the capital.

101st Asmayee zone police chief, Brig. Gen. Mohammad Zahir, hoped there would be no security lapse since all roads leading to the venue had been closed for traffic.

The Taliban have warned they will target organisers and participants of the jirga. Security officials on Monday killed a would-be suicide attacker, who was allegedly carrying explosives to the area.

frm/mud

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