Khalilzad meets with Dostum over peace talks with Taliban

AVA- The statement said Dostum held a meeting with US Special Representative for Afghanistan’s Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad on Sunday.
“Political and security situations, the peace process and future presidential elections were discussed during the meeting,” according to the statement.
Referring to the growing insecurity in the country especially in the north, the first vice president said he could play a key role in reconciliation efforts between the government and the Taliban.
He stressed the role of political parties and influential individuals such as Abdul Sattar Sirat in the peace process besides activities of the High Peace Council.
He added result-oriented talks should take place with the armed opposition for achieving peace --- a long-awaiting demand of the people of Afghanistan.
The first vice president stressed transparency in the Wolesi Jirga elections and demanded separation of transparent and fraudulent votes.
Separately, the US special representative held a meeting with Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah.
A statement from the CEO office said Khalilzad briefed the CEO regarding his recent visits to regional countries and reiterated Washington’s resolve to support Afghan owned and led peace talks.
Abdullah hailed efforts of Khalilzad and his colleagues for peace and stability in Afghanistan.