Reuters: Afghan Taliban meet U.S. officials, as peace efforts intensify
KABUL (Reuters) - Afghan Taliban representatives and U.S. officials met in the United Arab Emirates on Monday, amid diplomatic moves toward establishing the basis for talks to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan.
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said representatives from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and the UAE would also take part in the talks, which follow at least two meetings between Taliban officials and U.S. special peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad in Qatar. He said the talks had begun and could take some time.
The U.S. embassy in Kabul would not confirm any meeting was due to take place.
Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have intensified, although the Taliban have refused to deal directly with the internationally recognized government in Kabul, which it considers an illegitimate foreign-imposed regime.
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WNU Editor: Afghan officials were not present, but everyone else is .... Pakistan, Saudis, UAE join US-Taliban talks (AP).
More News On U.S. Officials Meeting Afghan Taliban For Peace Talks In The U.A.E.
3rd round of U.S.-Taliban talks start without Afghan government reps. -- CBS/AP
U.S. diplomats hold talks with Taliban on ending Afghanistan war -- Washington Post
Taliban meeting US representatives in UAE on Monday -- The Hill
Taliban political leaders to meet U.S. envoy for Afghan peace in UAE today -- Khaama Press
Taliban to meet US officials in UAE, group says -- Al Jazeera
Afghan Taliban Representatives, US Officials Meet in UAE -- VOA
9/11 hangs over Taliban talks and assurances militant group has changed -- NBC
