Tribune News Service

KABUL, June 20

The Taliban said on Sunday they were committed to peace talks and wanted a "genuine Islamic system" in Afghanistan that would make provisions for women's rights in line with cultural traditions and religious rules.

The statement came amid slow progress in the talks between the hardline Islamic group and Afghan Government representatives in Qatar and as violence rises dramatically around the country ahead of the withdrawal of foreign forces by September 11. Officials have raised concerns over the stalling negotiations and have said the Taliban have not yet submitted a written peace proposal that could be used as a starting point for substantive talks.

"We understand that the world and Afghans have queries and questions about the form of the system to be established following withdrawal of foreign troops," said Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the head of the Taliban's political office, in the statement, adding the issues were best addressed during negotiations in Doha. "A genuine Islamic system is the best means for solution of all issues of the Afghans," said Baradar. — Reuters

Pak to complete border fencing by June-end

Islamabad: In the wake of looming uncertainty in Afghanistan due to the withdrawal of the US troops, Pakistan has announced it will complete the fencing of its border with the country by the end of June. Minister for Interior Sheikh Rashid Ahmed stated this during a National Assembly session. PTI

Afghan Prez replaces army chief

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has replaced his defence and interior ministers and the army chief of staff amid rising casualties among Afghan security forces that are fighting the Taliban. Reuters

US failed to deliver: ex-president

Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai said on Sunday the US came to Afghanistan to fight extremism and bring stability to the war-torn nation and was leaving nearly 20 years later having failed at both. reuters