Intra-Afghan talks still a priority for US: Pompeo

KABUL (Pajhwok): A top US diplomat has congratulated President Ashraf Ghani and Dr. Abdullah, the new chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation, on signing a power-sharing deal.

On Sunday, Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo spoke with Ghani and Abdullah and greeted them on reaching an agreement on forming an inclusive government.

In a statement from the State Department, Pompeo regretted the time lost during the political impasse, which was triggered by last year’s flawed presidential elections.

A political settlement to end the conflict remained the priority for the United States, which welcomed the commitment by the two leaders to act immediately in support of prompt entry into intra-Afghan talks, the secretary of state said.

Meanwhile, US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad tweeted: “After a protracted period, Ghani and Abdullah have agreed to form an inclusive government…”

The outline for this compromise has been in place for 10 weeks, according to the ambassador, who wish the new government success.

He added: “The US is prepared to partner with the new government in a peace process that ends the war. That process must be based on timely implementation of commitments made to date.”

The diplomat urged both leaders not to repeat mistakes in governing that existed under the national unity government, as the Afghans themselves had negotiated the new set-up.

The envoy stressed Abdullah must move forward with full speed and urgency, and be sincerely supported by the current government.

PAN Monitor/mud

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