Afghan Peace Deal in Sight as U.S.-Taliban Talks Hit Final Stage
- Troop withdrawal is most contentious point in negotiations
- Women want UN to monitor any deal as their rights are at stake
A U.S. Army Chinook lands outside the governor's palace in Maidan Shar, capital of Wardak province.
Photographer: Thomas Watkins/AFP via Getty Images
The U.S. and the Taliban appear close to announcing an agreement to end nearly two decades of war in Afghanistan, which would include a timetable for foreign troop withdrawal and direct discussions between the militants and the local government.
The withdrawal of the U.S. and NATO forces has been the most contentious point in the negotiations. The initial withdrawal is expected to include roughly 5,000 of the 14,000 U.S. troops still stationed in Afghanistan. In return, the Taliban must ensure it does not provide a base from where terrorist groups can carry out attacks against other countries, and to respect the civil and political rights of Afghan citizens.