Afghan Peace Conference Delayed For Second Time

Afghan officials said a conference to discuss peace prospects with the Taliban had been postponed for a second time.

The gathering of tribal elders and other community leaders had been expected to begin on May 29, but the start of the three-day conference is now scheduled for June 2.

One of the organizers, Najeeb Amin, said the delay will allow more time for delegates to travel to the capital and register.

The conference, known as a loya jirga, was postponed from early May to allow President Hamid Karzai to discuss his peace plans during a visit to Washington earlier this month.

No representatives of the Taliban are due to attend the event.

compiled from agency reports