US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad has arrived in Kabul in his first visit after US President Donald Trump called off US-Taliban peace talks. Before heading to Kabul, he visited Brussels, Paris, and Moscow. During his two-day visit to Brussels, he briefed representatives of NATO member states on the situation of Afghanistan and peace talks with the Taliban. Afterwards, he flew to Moscow where he attended the quadrilateral meeting involving US, China, Russia and Pakistan. The participants of the meeting called on the US to resume peace talks with the Taliban.
Khalilzad’s trip to Kabul is part of the renewed American push to revive peace negotiations with the Taliban. While the US-Taliban peace agreement has been finalized, the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan without any formal political agreement remains to be a concern. As someone who is highly expected to make unexpected decisions, the likelihood of Trump announcing an abrupt withdrawal like from Syria cannot be ruled out. Though there is a clear difference in American policies towards Afghanistan and Syria, there is no guarantee that President Trump will not order an irresponsible pullout. This fear further strengthens the need for a political settlement with the Taliban. However, a political deal with the Taliban that will guarantee all the gains of the last two decades is an ideal, but the existence of some of kind of a political deal is better than a no deal if that goal seems unachievable before the US withdrawal. Thus, it is better to step up efforts to resuscitate the peace process.
During his tour, Khalilzad has to earn the trust of Afghan government with regard to his mission. To make his efforts a success, he needs to win the confidence and support of Afghan government leaders. By ensuring necessary transparency in his mission, he must convince Afghan government that the ongoing peace negotiations are the only way to bring an end to the bloody conflict in Afghanistan. Also, endeavors should be made to forge a consensus among all Afghan sides on peace. Prior to the signing of US-Taliban peace deal, there has to be a total consensus in Kabul, and then talks and discussions with the Taliban on the future of the country should be held with a united stance.