US State Department: Talks with Taliban Candid, Professional
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The US Department of State says that discussions were held between a US delegation and Taliban officials to discuss a number of subjects, including "security and terrorism concerns."
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US Department of State comments on its meeting with Taliban representatives in Doha
The US Department of State said that on October 9 and 10, discussions were held between a US delegation and Taliban representatives in Doha, Qatar.
According to State Department Spokesperson, Ned Price, the US delegation focused on security and terrorism concerns and "safe passage for US citizens, other foreign nationals and our Afghan partners, as well as on human rights, including the meaningful participation of women and girls in all aspects of Afghan society."
The two sides also discussed the US' provision of "robust" humanitarian aid, "directly to the Afghan people." The Spokesperson's statement also described the talks as "candid and professional," saying that the US delegation reiterated during the talks that the Taliban will be judged by its actions and not just its words.
The US Treasury had earlier allowed limited financial transactions with the Taliban and the Haqqani network related to "humanitarian work in Afghanistan."
UK Envoy Simon Gass also held talks in Kabul with Taliban officials from the new post-US withdrawal government.
The White House announced in September that the United States does not plan on recognizing the Taliban's new government any time soon.
