Afghan peace talks

When the Taliban opened their political office in Qatar last week, it was the first time in many years that the world got to see members of the insurgents` inner circle - urbane and educated.

The Taliban rejected reports that they may cancel peace talks with the US and the Afghan governments over criticism of the insurgents` office that opened in Qatar last week.

US Secretary of State John Kerry has said disagreement over the Taliban office in Qatar is the `very first test` of the Islamic militant movement`s commitment to peace talks.

India has cautioned Afghanistan over peace talks with the Taliban, saying the new initiative should not violate the "red lines".

US President Barack Obama said Wednesday he always expected "friction" at Afghan reconciliation talks but voiced hope they could still take place despite a row over the name of a new Taliban office in Doha.

Obama and Karzai said that they would support an office in Doha for the purpose of negotiations.

US officials are hoping the prisoner exchange would open the door to peace talks between militants and Afghan govt.

The US’ move is in stark contrast to its earlier policy of resisting talks with the Haqqani network.

The hardline Islamists announced this week that they planned to open an overseas political office.

Afghans marked a decade since the death of an iconic anti-Taliban fighter two days before 9/11.

The Taliban has denied as
"baseless rumours" reports that its top leaders had met UN
representatives to discuss bringing peace to Afghanistan and
vowed to persist in its war "against the invaders."