Taliban blacklist linked to Kabul agreement: Ghani

Monitoring Desk

KABUL: Renewing his offer of a political office to the Taliban and talks on prisoners, President Ashraf Ghani said the rebel leaders could not be removed from the UN blacklist until they reached an agreement with the Afghan government.

Addressing a ceremony marking the National Day of the National Defense and Security Forces at the Ministry of Defense in Kabul, the president said no political agreement or upheaval could eclipse the achievements and heroism of the brave Afghan security forces.

Offering his gratitude to the families of soldiers, Ghani said they were real owners of the country because they faced the real threat and offered real sacrifice. “Because of your sacrifices, millions of Afghans are living in peace.”

Directing security forces to be ready for possible attacks, the president said “the most severe moment in a war comes when peace approaches.”

Addressing the Taliban, the president said his government was ready to offer them an office, talk on prisoners, but their leaders could not be removed from the UN blacklist until an understanding was reached with Kabul.

“Peace is mutual respect, when we offered unconditional peace talks, we gave you respect and you should also respect the great Afghan nation,” Ghani told the rebels. (Pajhwok)