Afghanistan’s representatives, including members of the Taliban (radical movement, outlawed in Russia), will discuss at a conference in Moscow on February 5-6 the situation in the republic and try to search for a peaceful way to settle the years-long conflict.

Delegates of Afghan diasporas from the Commonwealth of Independent States and Europe as well as representatives of Iran and Pakistan may take part in the forum. The meeting is organized by the Afghan diaspora of Russia.

The Afghan society welcomed the initiative to hold the event in the Russian capital. Afghan Prime Minister Abdullah Abdullah said the conference could become a step towards establishing peace "if it creates an opportunity for real peace talks." He also noted that representatives of the republic’s government plan to meet with Russian Ambassador to Kabul Alexander Mantytsky on Tuesday.

According to the report, the Taliban will take part in the conference. The delegation will be led by Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai, former head of Taliban’s Qatar office. Some ten members of the radical movement plan to attend the Moscow talks, 1 TV reported.

On the eve of the conference, the Afghan diaspora in Moscow voiced hope that the dialogue will enhance mutual understanding between the Afghans and help bring the parties’ positions closer. The organizers say in case of success further meetings could be held.