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The United States stands ready to join direct talks with the Taliban in an attempt to end the 17-year war in Afghanistan. General John Nicholson, commander-in-chief of US forces in Afghanistan, said Monday amid increasing speculation about the possibility of peace talks.
Comments came as diplomatic efforts emerged for talks after an unprecedented period. Unarmed Taliban members mingled with Afghan security forces in the streets of Kabul and other cities during a ceasefire last month.
Nicholson, who heads the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission. "US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that we, the United States, are ready to talk to the Taliban and discuss the role of international forces," he said. "We hope that they are aware of this effort, which should help advance the peace process."
Earlier, the New York Times reported that the administration of President Donald Trump had ordered diplomats to negotiate directly with the Taliban. [lt]
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