DOHA, Qatar (AP) - U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres revealed that the Taliban has set unacceptable conditions for their participation in a U.N.-sponsored meeting about Afghanistan held in Doha, Qatar. The Taliban's demands included the exclusion of Afghan civil society members from the talks and sought treatment tantamount to official recognition as the country's legitimate rulers.

The two-day meeting in Doha aimed to address the ongoing situation in Afghanistan since the Taliban seized power in 2021 following the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces after two decades of war. Guterres highlighted the significant challenge in recognizing the Taliban as the legitimate government due to existing restrictions on female education and employment in Afghanistan.

Despite efforts to engage the Taliban in discussions, they did not attend the meeting as their demands had not been met. Guterres acknowledged the importance of including the Taliban in the dialogue to reach a comprehensive solution for the future of Afghanistan. The focus of contention remains on lifting bans imposed on women and girls by the Taliban and the appointment of a U.N. special envoy, which the Taliban oppose.

Guterres emphasized the necessity for dialogue and clear consultations with the Taliban to address concerns and reach common ground on critical issues. While the Taliban were not present at the recent meeting, Guterres expressed optimism that a resolution could be found to involve them in future discussions to promote stability and progress in Afghanistan.