Afghan Taleban Signal Interest in Joining Moscow Talks

The Afghan Taleban has signalled willingness to take part in a meeting that Russia is expected to host next month on peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. Two Taleban officials told The Express Tribune that it is possible that the group may participate in the Moscow meeting, if invited. “Our response would be positive if we get a formal invitation,” two Taleban officials said on Sunday. The Express Tribune reported that Russia has extended an invitation to 12 countries for consultations in Moscow on April 14. Afghan National Security Advisor Mohammad Hanif Atmar (NSA) said that Russia has invited the United States to participate in the conference. Atmar said Kabul was grateful for the invitation since the United States is an important partner and its role is central in the efforts to launch the peace process. Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) earlier said that Afghanistan welcomes Russia’s diplomatic efforts for peace and stability in Afghanistan.