Afghanistanian government on Wednesday offered recognition of the Taliban as a legitimate political group.
The offer was announced by President Ashraf Ghani while addressing second international Kabul Process conference in Kabul, aimed at creating a platform for peace talks.
The president also proposed a ceasefire and prisoner release, new elections and a constitutional review as part of deal with the Taliban.
He said that the government is making the offer without preconditions in order to lead to a peace agreement.
"The Taliban are expected to give input to the peace-making process, the goal of which is to draw the Taliban, as an organization, to peace talks," Ghani said.
The offer also involves opening of Taliban office, issuance of passport and freedom of travel, help removal from international blacklists.
It also involves security arrangements for Taliban seeking peace, and reintegration of former fighters and refugees.
The government prefers Kabul as venue for peace talks, but it is also open to holding talks in Muslim countries not engaged in conflict, a U.N. facility or a third party country.
Taliban has yet to react on the offer.
Two days before the meeting which draws representatives of more than 20 countries and international organizations, Taliban issued a statement calling for peace dialogue with the United States.
President Ghani said that the Taliban would have to recognize the Afghan government and respect the rule of law.
He also renewed call for state-to-state dialogue with Pakistan, which is accused of backing the Taliban.
LINK: https://www.ansarpress.com/english/9458
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