Erdogan: we are dealing with messages from Afghan Taliban leaders with cautious optimism

ANKARA, Aug. 26 (YPA) – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday that his country is currently dealing with messages from Afghan Taliban leaders with “cautious optimism.”

The Taliban’s actions and not words will determine the future Afghanistan process, the Turkish president said, adding, “Turkey will continue close dialogue with all parties in Afghanistan in line with the goal of stability of the country.”

Erdogan’s statement coincided with the announcement by the Turkish Defense Ministry that the evacuation of its troops from Afghanistan would begin “after assessing various contacts, the situation and current circumstances.”

The Taliban, which controls most of Afghanistan, including the capital Kabul, said they “do not want to see Turkish soldiers in the country.”

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said on Tuesday: “We want good relations with Turkey, but we don’t want military presence in Afghanistan.”

E.M