Afghan president calls on Taliban to join peace process

Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai on Friday once again called on Taliban leadership to give up militancy and join the peace process, according to a statement released by his office.

"The president once again called on Taliban chief Mullah Mohammad Omar and other dissident Afghans to give up brother killing and join the peace process in the country," the statement said.

Afghan president made these remarks on the occasion of Eidul Fitr the religious festival to mark the end of Muslims fasting month Ramadan.

He made this offer while Taliban elusive chief Mullah Omar in his message on the eve of Eidul Fitr called upon his fighters to intensify attacks against Afghan and NATO-led troops stationed in Afghanistan.

Taliban leadership has repeatedly rejected any offer for talks with Afghan government, stressing there will be no talks in the presence of foreign troops in Afghanistan.