Imperative that Afghans are in 'driving seat' in peace efforts: Abdullah

“In the efforts to achieve peace, it is imperative that Afghans are in driving seat,” Abdullah said speaking at Sciences Po university in Paris. “At this stage, we appreciate the efforts made by the US envoy and his team in facilitating talks between Taliban and the Afghan government representatives.”
“At the same time, our people have made big sacrifices to have the achievements… including certain freedoms, liberties and their rights. These will not be compromised under any circumstances, because it will not lead to sustainable peace.”
Abdullah has said that the Afghan government is ready to talk with the Taliban, but the group has refused to follow suit.
He said that sanctuaries for Taliban and other groups in “some of our neighbours” still remain as a challenge.
Abdullah said that stability in Afghanistan would not only benefit itself but also countries in the region.
Earlier, Khalilzad expressed hope that a peace deal is reached between the Afghan government and the Taliban before presidential election which is due to be held in April next year.
“We hope that there will be an opportunity for Taliban to get together with our representatives and talk about the future of the country free of violence and terror,” Abdullah said.