Afghan government and Taliban hold talks in Doha

A round of talks took place in the Qatari capital of Doha on Saturday between representatives of the Afghan government and Taliban insurgents.

US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad was present as the two sides were set to meet.

Former chief executive Abdullah Abdullah with high-ranking officials from the Afghani government were among the government delegation.

Former President Hamid Karazai was expected to join the meeting as well.

Taliban insurgents launched a series of offensives across the country as foreign troops began the withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Thousands of Afghans have fled the country in recent days as Taliban forces have surged through northern Afghanistan.