Stepping up efforts to build a broad coalition, US defence secretary Donald Rumsfeld on Wednesday embarked on a lightning tour of four key Islamic countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt amidst reports that Pentagon is considering minimising the use of Pakistani bases in military strikes against Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan. With the strikes against Afghanistan becoming increasingly certain, the ruling Taliban regime renewed its call to hold negotiations with the US but remained noncommittal on handing over bin Laden, prime suspect in September 11 terror attacks in America.
“We prefer negotiations than war,” Taliban ambassador to Pakistan Abdul Salem Zaeef told CNN in a live interview. He made it clear that negotiations through Pakistan were not suitable. President George W Bush has already rejected Taliban's offer of negotiations. Asked if Taliban would turn over the Saudi dissident if proof of his involvement in the attacks were shown, Zaeef said, “Hand over is the other option and other action. We want (proof) that Osama bin Laden is involved in this action and if this action was a terrorist action.” He said the US should talk to Taliban directly and if they are talking through Pakistan “This is not suitable.” Bureau Report