Afghanistan Suggests Talks Possible With Taliban

(RFE/RL) January 29, 2007 -- Afghan President Hamid Karzai today suggested that his government could hold peace talks with the Taliban, after a year of bloody fighting with the Islamist movement.

While not specifically naming the Taliban, Karzai said the door remains open for negotiations "with our enemy."

"While we are fighting for our honor, we still open the door for talks and negotiations with our enemy, who is after our annihilation and is shedding our blood," Karzai said.

He made the offer in Kabul during a religious gathering for the Ashura holiday, one of the holiest days for Shi'a.

Two years ago, Karzai offered amnesty to moderate Taliban, but today's offer made no such distinction.

(Reuters)