Former US Special Representative for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, has called for the implementation of the Doha Deal, which he negotiated and signed with the Taliban, paving the way for the US’s chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan and the group’s return to power in August 2021.
Zalmay Khalilzad has been widely criticised by former Afghan government officials and political leaders, as well as Americans and others for the deal.
The veteran Afghanistan-born diplomat also welcomed the appointment of Feridun Sinirlioğlu, as the United Nations’ Special Coordinator for Afghanistan, saying that he has “vast experience and good judgement”.
Khalilzad called on the UN Secretary-General to “produce a road map for international engagement with Afghanistan” at the closed door meeting to be held in Doha on 1st and 2nd May.
“As I have stated many times, the best option is for the implementation of the still open steps in the Doha Agreement. It would be important that Ambassador Sinirlioğlu attend this meeting.
“There should be a meeting with the Taliban during the Doha gathering to determine their commitment to full and complete implementation of the Doha agreement,” Khalilzad said.
Zalmay Khalilzad has been accused by some of lobbying for the Taliban. The former Afghanistan intelligence chief, Rahmatullah Nabil, has said he has turned into a “monster” for advocating for the Taliban, for “personal gains”.
