President
Karzai Appeals To Talebans
President
Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan has called on the Taliban and other
extremist groups to lay down their weapons and participate in
rebuilding the country, as part of reconciliation efforts.
In a message marking the major Muslim holiday of Eid, el-Kabir,
President Karzai said he hoped that for the peace, stability and
development of the country, the Talibans would return to their
homeland with their families.
The president also reiterated a call to his main rival during
the last presidential election, Abdullah Abdullah, to join in
helping the country.
The appeal comes after the Taliban leader, Mullah Omar, issued a
statement ruling out talks with the president and calling on
Afghans to break off relations with his administration.
The hard-line militia has long refused to negotiate with
Karzai's government or join what it considers a puppet
administration.
AFP/Yinka
