Ghani, Blinken talk reduction in violence

KABUL (Pajhwok): President Ashraf Ghani and US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken have discussed the urgency of ongoing diplomatic and political efforts to reduce the escalating violence in Afghanistan.

The telephonic conversation took place on Saturday when more provinces were overrun by the resurgent Taliban, who are rapidly closing in on the capital Kabul.

State Department spokesperson Ned Price tweeted Blinken emphasised the America’s commitment to a strong diplomatic and security relationship with the Afghan government.

On Friday, Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin conferred with Ghani on the current security situation in the country and US plans to reduce America’s civilian footprint in Kabul.

As of Sunday morning, the Taliban wrested control of 29 of the country’s 34 provinces. Five more provinces, including Nangarhar and Balkh were surrendered to the Taliban without fighting in less than 24 hours.

mud

Views: 326