Ex-president stresses ceasefire, intra-Afghan talks

KABUL.

In an interview, Karzai also welcomed the just-concluded marathon meetings between American and Taliban representatives in Doha.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, he said the time was ripe for a truce in Afghanistan. “We should have it right now as that is the demand of the Afghan people: immediate ceasefire and peace.”

As and when an intra-Afghan dialogue begins, according to the former head of state, the first focus would be on a ceasefire and an end to violence.

In response to a query, he underlined the need for an inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue, including the government. Such talks would begin soon, he believed.

The Taliban being part and parcel of Afghan society could not be kept out of loop in terms of government and peace negotiations, the then president argued.

“So, we want the Taliban to be part of the Afghan political society, part of Afghan politics, to engage in all aspects of life. We hope we will reach comprehensive agreements on modalities with a perspective for an Afghanistan that is progressive, peaceful and in line with the rest of the world.”

PAN Monitor/mud