We’re on right path, not yet done, Khalilzad tells critics

KABUL talks were ‘on the right path’, but warned there was more work to be done on vital issues, adding: “you can't eat an elephant in one bite.”

Earlier this week Khalilzad confirmed Washington and the Taliban had a “draft framework” in place for a deal which could pave the way for the insurgents to hold peace talks with Kabul.

But the development triggered concerns among Afghans about a US exit before a peace agreement reaches between the Taliban and Kabul.

“The path to peace doesn't often run in a straight line,” Khalilzad tweeted. “We made significant progress on two vital issues: counter terrorism and troop withdrawal.”

 “That doesn't mean we're done. We're not even finished with these issues yet, and there is still work to be done on other vital issues like intra-Afghan dialogue and a complete ceasefire.”

Sceptics have “rushed to judgement”, he said, but added that “you can't eat an elephant in one bite!” “And a forty year old war won't be resolved in one meeting, even if that meeting runs for close to a week.”

Khalilzad stressed that the conflict has many actors with many interests, but repeated earlier calls to seize the momentum.  “This is a moment for Afghans to begin to heal old wounds and chart a new course for their country,” the envoy said.

 “We are on the right path, together. As @POTUS said, talks are proceeding well,” he added, referring to US President Donald Trump.

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