To enter negotiations, Afghans will need an inclusive government: US

Kelly Craft, Permanent Representative of US Mission to the UN, said that the US is disappointed that Afghanistan’s leaders have failed to form such a government.
"Afghan leaders demonstrated commendable commitment to peace this week by establishing a negotiating team and adopting practical steps to releasing prisoners; they should extend this commitment to the challenge of government formation," the diplomat said.
The US has decided to cut $1 billion assistance to Afghanistan this year.
"Should Afghan leaders choose to form an inclusive government that can provide security and participate in the peace process, the Trump administration is prepared to support these efforts and revisit the assistance review initiated this week," Craft said.
She also called on the Taliban to immediately reduce levels of violence.
"The recent attacks waged by the Taliban are not in keeping with its stated commitments to achieving a negotiated peace process," Craft said. “We call on the Taliban to immediately reduce levels of violence."
She said that US will work to preserve gains made in Afghanistan over the past 19 years in expanding the rights of women and girls.
"No future Afghan government can expect the support of the international community, donors, or businesses if women’s rights and participation are revoked or ignored," Craft said.