Seán Barrett
Ceist:20 Mr. Barrett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the prospects he envisages for UN brokered talks on Afghanistan. [8862/99]
Written Answers. - Afghanistan Talks.
Talks between the main factional groups in Afghanistan took place in Ashkhabad, the capital of Turkmenistan, earlier this month under the auspices of the United Nations. The groups – comprising the Taliban and the Northern Alliance – discussed the possibility of establishing a broad-based government, the holding of elections, the calling of a ceasefire and the release of prisoners. I understand, however, that little of a concrete nature was agreed, other than the release of 20 prisoners on each side under the supervision of the Red Cross. The two sides also agreed to meet again at an unspecified date, preferably within Afghanistan. The fact that the talks took place was clearly a positive development. Sources within the United Nations have, however, cautioned against excessive optimism. It would appear there remains a long path to be followed before any genuine settlement can be achieved.