Special representatives of Russia, China, the United States and Pakistan discussed the preparation of direct inter-Afghan talks and noted progress in the exchange of prisoners in Afghanistan between the government and the radical Taliban* movement, the Russian foreign Ministry said.
As reported, on June 3, special representatives on Afghanistan affairs from the usual three sides – Russia, the United States and China, plus Pakistan – had telephone consultations, which was attended by Russian Presidential Representative for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov.
During the talks the parties noted some progress in the exchange of prisoners between the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Taliban* movement and discussed preparations for direct intra-Afghan talks. Special attention was given to the inclusion of new participants in the expanded three-member format," the Russian MFA's message reads.
The parties have agreed to continue their contacts.
In Afghanistan, there is a confrontation between government forces and militants of the radical Taliban* movement, which previously seized a significant territory in rural areas of the country and launched an offensive on major cities. The influence of the Islamic State (ISIS)* terrorist group has also increased in the country. The national defense and security forces of Afghanistan are conducting joint counter-terrorism operations throughout the country.
*Terrorist groups whose activities are prohibited in Russia
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
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