CRI听力：Taliban Accepts Direct Talks with S.Korea Delegates

The Taliban has agreed to hold face-to-face talks with the South Korean government over the fate of 21 hostages in Afghanistan.

Taliban Spokesman Yousuf Ahmadi said on Thursday his group is disappointed with the Afghan government, as it did not show sincerity in negotiations.

"As we said before we want to negotiate directly with the Koreans because the Kabul administration and US administration are not sincere about finding a solution to this case, this problem belongs to only the Korean government and the Korean people."

Local tribal elders in Ghazni province are facilitating and seeking a place for a direct meeting between Taliban commanders and the South Korean ambassador to Kabul.

Meanwhile, police in Ghazni say they are doing everything they can to stop further kidnappings and to capture Taliban insurgents.

"We are checking vehicles and searching people to avoid anymore kidnappings and to stop the enemy from operating in the city."

The Taliban kidnapped 23 South Koreans in July in exchange of Taliban prisoners and killed two last week. Its spokesman said the remaining 21 are not in good condition, with some requiring urgent medical treatment.