Atmar, Khalilzad discuss Afghan peace process: MFA

Mohammad Haneef Atmar, Afghan Foreign Minister has discussed the latest developments in the Afghan peace process with the US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad. 

In a VTC meeting, which was attended by the U.S. Charge d’Affairs in Kabul Mr. Ross Wilson, the two sides exchanged views on the latest developments and challenges regarding the ongoing peace negotiations in Doha.

In a statement released on Friday, the MFA stated: “both sides discussed strengthening the international community’s support for the second round of peace talks… and continuing the joint efforts between Kabul and Washinton for the success of the peace process.”

MFA said that Atmar praised the Afghan-U.S. joint efforts for finding a peaceful solution to the conflict in Afghanistan.

US envoy, Khalilzad also welcome the second round of peace talks in Doha and assured the Afghan government of US support.

“Mr. Khalilzad assured the Afghan Foreign Minister of the United States full support to the Afghan peace process and Washington’s commitment to long-term cooperation in countering terrorism and promoting regional peace and stability,” read the statement.

This comes as President Ashraf Ghani reportedly refused to meet with Khalilzad on the grounds that the US wants an interim government to be formed – which Ghani is opposed to.