US-Taliban to Enter 'Temporary Ceasefire' from 0:00 on 22nd... Peace Agreement to Be Signed by End of This Month

[Asia Economy Reporter Son Sunhee] The United States and the Afghan armed rebel group Taliban are reported to enter a 'temporary ceasefire' for seven days starting from midnight on the 22nd (local time).

According to major foreign media on the 21st, Zabiullah Faizal, spokesperson for the Afghan National Security Council, announced that a 'reduction in violence' measure between both sides will begin from midnight on the 22nd for one week.

This includes not only regular military combat but also various violent acts such as terrorism. During this period, the Taliban is expected to demonstrate control over its own factional forces, laying the foundation for future peace negotiations.

If this measure proceeds smoothly, the US and the Taliban plan to sign a peace agreement around the 29th, according to Afghan officials. Once the peace agreement is reached, the approximately 12,000 US troops stationed in Afghanistan are expected to begin a phased withdrawal.

However, the US and the Taliban have not yet issued official statements regarding this announcement from the Afghan government.