Time to Talk

To Canadians, Pakistan's Prez Pervez Musharraf and the leader of Germany's Social Democratic Party, the possibility of negotiations with the Taliban are enticing. Afghans feel the same, considering that nearly four hundred civilians died there this month. In May, the Afghan Senate even passed a bill to create a ceasefire and to instigate talks. And, apparently, the government has already gotten on the talks.

Maybe this quest is quixotic, but I'm still looking know who these Taliban are. If NATO negotiates with local fighters, how are their goals different from an international, volunteer suicide force? Tell me!!!