Afghan government on Thursday announced that it has released all the 5,000 prisoners sought by the Taliban before talks, except a few for which foreign countries have reservations.
The announcement was made by Javid Faisal, a spokesman for National Security Council, who said that the government also received commandos held hostage by the Taliban.
There are seven prisoners foreign countries including France and Australia have objected to their release.
“Diplomatic efforts are ongoing. We expect direct talks to start promptly,” Faisal said.
Earlier on Thursday, sources told 1TV that the seven prisoners will be moved to Qatar under a protocol.
Ahmadullah Wasiq, a senior Taliban member based in Qatar, said that the prisoners will be handed over to the Taliban’s political office.
