Washington—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement:

“The Taliban’s announced commitment to a reduction in violence in Afghanistan is a positive first step. Hopefully, this will lead to a sustained reduction in violence, a constructive intra-Afghan dialogue—including participation by women and minorities – and ultimately, the withdrawal of the U.S. troops. The success of this approach will depend on the Taliban’s willingness to keep its commitments, including separating from al-Qaeda and renouncing violence.

“I remain frustrated and disappointed that the Administration has sidelined Congress in this process. This negotiation was carried out without any meaningful input from Congress and with little transparency for the American people. I expect Ambassador Khalilzad to brief members of Congress on this development very soon.”

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