Afghan Prez calls for peace talks with Taliban

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani raised concerns over the deaths of security forces and added that this shows the war price is very heavy, therefore, talks between the government and the Taliban should happen.

Kabul: To end decades-old conflict with Taliban, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani on Wednesday called for talks between the government and the Taliban during his address at the 5th Annual European Anti-Corruption Conference.

Ghani said, "This is the time of peace because conditions have been provided and should be used extensively. If this opportunity is lost, it will be a huge responsibility."

He raised concerns over the deaths of security forces and added that this shows the war price is very heavy, therefore, talks between the government and the Taliban should happen.

Media reported that more than 70 fighters, mostly Taliban militants, were killed in gun battles in the country over the past 24 hours.

Ghani said the presidential elections will be held on time.

Ghani recently visited Pakistan praised the new chapter of relations with the neighboring country.