The United Nations' top official in Afghanistan said on Wednesday that he supports a “process of reconciliation” in Afghanistan as long as talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban are premised on “positive engagement with elements of the Taliban who would like to join the peace process.” Kai Eide, a Norwegian diplomat made the comments after briefing the Security Council on the situation in Afghanistan. Eide acknowledged that the security situation in Afghanistan is “very serious” but also said positive developments were being overlooked. In particular, he cited “a new, constructive relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan,” as well as yesterday's reshuffling of the Afghan ministerial cabinet.
