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This dialogue is an essential element of the four-part peace framework and an important step in advancing the Afghan Peace Process: Khalilzad
AT News Report
KABUL: Germany and Qatar will jointly host an intra Afghan dialogue in Doha from 7th to 8th July of current month to foster the ongoing Afghan peace process in the wake of unwavering ferocity across Afghanistan as war even further intensified between Afghan forces and the Taliban fighters.
A statement issued by Ambassador Markus Potzel, Special Representative of the Federal Government of Germany for Afghanistan and Pakistan, said that as part of their efforts to support the peace process in Afghanistan, Germany and Qatar will convene an intra-Afghan Dialogue Conference to be held in Doha on 7th and 8th July, 2019.
“Afghanistan stands at a critical moment of opportunity for progress towards peace. An essential component of any process leading to this objective will be direct engagement between Afghans,” the statement added.
“Only Afghans themselves can decide the future of their country. An intra-Afghan dialogue can help clarify the options and opportunities of such direct engagement.”
Statement added that Germany and Qatar have extended joint invitations to the Afghan participants, who will participate only in their personal capacity and on an equal footing. Germany and Qatar hope that this event will contribute to trust-building among key stakeholders, representing a wide spectrum of the Afghan people and society, and thus foster peace and stability in Afghanistan and the wider region.
Meanwhile, U.S Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad, who is busy in talks with Taliban members, in a tweet message said; “I want to thank Germany and Qatar for agreeing to host the upcoming July 7-8 intra-Afghan Dialogue Conference. This dialogue is an essential element of the four-part peace framework and an important step in advancing the Afghan Peace Process.”
He said that mutual acceptance, seeking consensus, and agreeing to resolve political differences without force is what is needed to learn from the tragedy of the last 40 years. “I wish participants success.”
Germany and Qatar poised to host intra-Afghan dialogue, while the peace talks seventh round between Taliban member and U.S. Special Envoy already started on Saturday and entered its fourth day. Moreover, Taliban intensified attacking Afghan forces across the country, and they group launched a deadly attack in downtown Kabul on Monday, where hundreds of people, including schoolchildren were killed and wounded. The attack casted doubt over intention of the Taliban for peace, where president Ghani’s spokesman said Taliban are yet to up for peace process.
