Taliban say differences resolved on US troop withdrawal

A Taliban official says the United States and the Taliban have resolved differences in peace talks over troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, as well as Taliban guarantees to cut ties with extremist groups.

The development came during talks over the past two days in the Gulf Arab state of Qatar, where the Taliban maintain a political office.

The Taliban official spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasn't authorized to discuss details of negotiations.

Technical teams from the two sides will continue discussions on Tuesday in Doha. US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is tasked with finding a peaceful resolution to the nearly 18-year war. Intra-Afghan talks and a permanent cease-fire are other priorities.

But these talks have sidelined the government in Kabul. The Taliban refuse to talk directly with government representatives.