The U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad on Monday met with the head of the political office of Taliban Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar in Qatar.
Ambassador Khalilzad in a Twitter post announced this afternoon “Just finished a working lunch with Mullah Beradar and his team. First time we’ve met. Now moving on to talks.”
He has not disclosed further information regarding the meeting which has been described as an introductory meeting.
In a separate Tweet post, Ambassador Khalilzad announced earlier that “Arrived in #Doha to meet with a more authoritative Taliban delegation. This could be a significant moment. Appreciate #Qatar for hosting & #Pakistan in facilitating travel. Now the work begins in earnest.”
Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid also confirmed the meeting between Ambassador Khalilzad and Mullah Baradar in Qatar and added that the fifth round of the talks will kick off on Tuesday.
