The US and NATO forces commander in Afghanistan, Gen. Scott Miller, in a visit to the northern province of Faryab last week said the Taliban must reduce violence as it remains high amidst peace efforts.

"We did talk about the violence," Miller said about his meeting with officials during his trip. "We're trying to understand, make sure we understand the violence and really this is about the Afghan security forces protecting the Afghan people. But we all acknowledge that violence is too high, and the Taliban must lower their violence."

Violence remains high in the country amidst the ongoing peace negotiations in Doha between the Afghan republic and the Taliban negotiating teams. The start of the direct negotiations has faced delay over two disputed points on the procedural rules. So far, the contact groups of both sides have held seven meetings to discuss procedural rules for the negotitaions.

https://tolonews.com/afghanistan-166768