Al Jazeera: Taliban office officially opens in Qatar today

A long-discussed and often delayed office to represent the Taliban internationally is supposed to open in Qatar today, according to reports from Doha-based Al Jazeera Media Network.

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Update | 7pm

Al Jazeera now confirms that the office has opened, and in a news conference held there today, Taliban representatives say they are looking for a just government and good relations with their neighbors.

Afghan and US government officials have also stated that they expect to hold peace talks in Doha with the Taliban in the coming days.

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Both Al Jazeera English and Arabic reported the news yesterday, but offered no details on the source of the information.

News about a political headquarters opening here for the Taliban – and supported by the United States – started circulating in 2011, but has seen a number of setbacks.

Essentially a diplomatic mission without international recognition, the office is meant to serve as an outpost for negotiations between the US, the Afghan government, the Taliban and other mediators.

Although all sides have acknowledged such an office would be setup, no details had been provided about the office’s location, specific activities or opening date.

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