KABUL (SW) – President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani on Thursday held a telephonic conversation with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken over the peace process.
The presidency said in a statement that the US Secretary of State expressed concern and condemned the increase in violence and targeted assassinations in Afghanistan. It added the US Secretary of State praised the sacrifices made by the Afghan security and defense forces and said that he was working to ensure lasting and meaningful peace in Afghanistan and to help establish a ceasefire.
According to the State Department, Blinken talked about the US commitment to an enduring US-Afghan partnership, said spokesperson Ned Price in a statement. “The Secretary highlighted robust diplomatic support for the peace process focused on helping the parties to the conflict achieve a durable and just political settlement and permanent and comprehensive ceasefire that benefits all Afghans,” said the statement.
He added the United States is reviewing the February 2020 U.S.-Taliban agreement and whether the Taliban are living up to their commitments to cut ties with terrorist groups, to reduce violence in Afghanistan, and to engage in meaningful negotiations with the Afghan government and other stakeholders.
The statement said Blinken urged Afghan leaders to support the “historic opportunity” for peace in the region.
“The Secretary committed to consultations with the Government of Afghanistan, NATO allies, and international partners regarding a collective strategy to support a stable, sovereign, democratic, and secure future for Afghanistan,” said the statement.
The Taliban reached an agreement with Washington last February, promising to end the war in Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees.
ENDS
