Taliban optimistic about Doha meeting with US

Before resuming talks with America’s special representative in Doha, the Taliban have voiced optimism about Monday’s meeting.

In their last meeting a month ago, the two sides agreed in principle to a framework for a deal on a US troop pullout. The Taliban promised terrorists would not be allowed to use Afghan territory for future attacks.

On Friday, the insurgent movement said: "A meeting will take place between their negotiation team and US representatives in Qatar. Allah willing, it will prove positive. "

In a statement, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid spurned news reports that Mullah Baradar would not join the meeting due to internal differences.

Baradar had authorised a team of Taliban negotiators to hold negotiations talks with US envoys, Mujahid said.