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The more sensible Taliban leaders recognise that if they could not fully run the country in the 1990s, it is unlikely that they will ever be able to do so again.”

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One sign of the Taliban's desire to come out of the ISI's shadow can be seen by the Taliban's recent rhetoric and public statements.

They have been less jihadist and more nationalistic and patriotic about the need for all Afghans to unite.

They have in addition purposely distanced themselves from becoming a mouthpiece for Pakistan.

In an earlier statement the Taliban strongly hinted that they are ready to forsake al-Qaeda and any other global jihadist groups that may want to use Afghan soil for "terrorist" ends.

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