October 19, 2008	Sunday	Shawwal 19, 1429

KHAR, Oct 18: As Security forces claimed killing 13 more militants in Bajaur, Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan said their offer for talks was still valid, but they would not lay down arms.

“Taliban are … ready for talks with the government, but we will never lay down arms,” TTP spokesman Maulvi Omar told journalists by phone.

Taliban, he said, “sincerely” believed that talks were the best way to resolve issues because conflicts created complications, “but weapons will be retained for self-defence”.

In Peshawar, a senior official said unless militants lay down their weapons, there would be no peace talks with Taliban.

Maulvi Omar said Taliban were willing to hold talks with the federal government because tribal areas were directly under its control, adding that they would also negotiate in Swat.

He said that the federal government had not yet responded to the Taliban’s offer.

“We are waiting for the government’s response and are also ready for talks through a mediator,” the spokesman said.

Also on Saturday, artillery and air force jets pounded militants’ positions in various areas, including Nawagai where six militants were killed.

Combat helicopters and fighter planes carried out joint strikes in the Mamond area in which seven people were killed.

More than 20 families have so far left the Wer Mamond area, seeking refuge in safer places. Houses of militant ‘commanders’ were also attacked.