Since (according to news reports) the Taliban leaders are closely allied to Al Quaeda counterparts, and since Al Qaeda is looking for ways to strengthen its post-Bin Ladin network, legitimizing the Taliban by offering them a seat at the bargaining table, or an office in Qattar for that matter, is placing all players on a slippery footing. I believe it's better to take a balanced but firm position which is clear and cannot be misinterpreted.
A better offer to the Taliban might be: we offer you a place at the table if you commit to non-violent, negotiated political reform.
Bad enough that weapons are smuggled by the Taliban, into Afghanistan, Pakistan, all over Africa and half of the Middle East, but to offer them political recognition is definitely a gaffe in public perception, since it promotes ally mistrust and general anxiety.
Since (according to news reports) the Taliban leaders are closely allied to Al Quaeda counterparts, and since Al Qaeda is looking for ways to strengthen its post-Bin Ladin network, legitimizing the Taliban by offering them a seat at the bargaining table, or an office in Qattar for that matter, is placing all players on a slippery footing. I believe it's better to take a balanced but firm position which is clear and cannot be misinterpreted.
A better offer to the Taliban might be: we offer you a place at the table if you commit to non-violent, negotiated political reform.
Bad enough that weapons are smuggled by the Taliban, into Afghanistan, Pakistan, all over Africa and half of the Middle East, but to offer them political recognition is definitely a gaffe in public perception, since it promotes ally mistrust and general anxiety.