Afghan Taliban to open Qatar office: Spokesman

Kabul: The Taliban will open an office later Tuesday in Qatar, a spokesman said, offering a boost to possible peace talks after 12 years of fighting in Afghanistan.
"Yes, I can confirm the office will open later today in Qatar," Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid told a news agency. "The office is to open dialogue between the Taliban and the world."
Meanwhile, the United States welcomed the Taliban`s decision to open an office in Qatar and senior US officials said they hoped to meet with their Afghan foes within days.

"I think the United States will have its first meeting with the Taliban for several years in a couple of days in Doha," a senior US official told reporters, dubbing the move the "beginning of a very difficult road."

AFP