Washington, Aug 7 (UNI) US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has called on the Afghan assembly to release the remaining Taliban prisoners so that the way is paved for the resumption of the intra-Afghan negotiations.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Pompeo described the release of the remaining Taliban prisoners as the last obstacle for the start of the intra-Afghan talks “The United States commends the participants of the Loya Jirga to be convened on August 7 to consolidate national support for peace. We understand that they will decide on the expeditious release of the remaining Taliban prisoners from their list, the last obstacle to the start of intra-Afghan negotiations,” .
He also promised continued US support for ensuring lasting peace in Afghanistan “While the decisions and conduct of both parties to intra-Afghan negotiations will affect the size and scope of future U.S. assistance, the United States affirms its support for a sustainable peace and an enduring partnership with Afghanistan,” he added.