KABUL (SW): The High Peace Council (HPC) has confirmed talks between a faction of the Taliban and the Hezb-e-Islami for peace process have entered second day in Turkey.
Mohammad Ismael Qasimyar, adviser on international affairs at the HPC, told Salam Watandar that Humayoun Jarer is representing the Hezb-e-Islami party in these talks in Istanbul in Turkey. Without elaborating upon possible representation of the HPC in these talks, Qasimyar said such contacts are welcomed that pave way for peace talks.
Nadir Afghan, spokesman for the HI, said in this regard that the party has not organized this session in Istanbul, but he acknowledged representation of the party in it. He added that Humayoun Jarer, the son-in-law of the HI Chief Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, and two other high-ranking officials have taken part in Istanbul talks on the invitation of the HPC or the government. He added representatives of the Taliban’s Mullah Rasul faction, and some other Taliban leaders have taken part in these talks.
Analysts are optimistic about prospects of these talks. Mohammad Mutmaen, analyst on political affairs, said a delegation of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is on a visit in Kabul, and the Afghan government is under increasing pressure to move forward for peace talks. Meanwhile, Muhibullah Sharif, another analyst on political affairs, argued that such talks are not likely to yield any results. He said the Istanbul talks have been arranged by the HI, and members of the Taliban, and the HPC have taken part in it. He stressed all parties to the conflict should sit together to sort out differences, and reach peace.
The HI Chief Gulbuddin Hekmatyar visited Turkey a while ago, and it is believed he discussed procespects for peace talks there. A month ago, China announced its willingness to mediate for peace between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Meetings for peace with the Taliban have also been held in Qatar and other countries, but no substantial results have been obtained so far.
ENDS
