US and Taliban set for talks in Doha

Washington, Oct 09: A high-level US delegation will hold talks with Taliban representatives this weekend, the State Department said Friday.

The two sides have remained in contact since the Taliban re-took control of Afghanistan in August, but these will be the first in-person diplomatic talks.

What will the US and Taliban discuss?

The US delegation is set to include representatives from the State Department, USAID and the intelligence community.

"We will press the Taliban to respect the rights of all Afghans, including women and girls, and to form an inclusive government with broad support," a State Department spokesperson said.

"As Afghanistan faces the prospect of a severe economic contraction and possible humanitarian crisis, we will also press the Taliban to allow humanitarian agencies free access to areas of need."

The safe passage of US nationals and Afghan allies who wish to leave Afghanistan will also be addressed.

Earlier this week, UK officials held a first meeting with the Taliban in Kabul. Talks centered around the spiraling humanitarian crisis, issues of security and terrorism, as well as the rights of women.

Source: DW