KABUL, Aug. 11 -- Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani on Sunday called for the end of war and the return of viable peace in his militancy-battered country.
Addressing the nation after performing Eid al-Adha prayer in Presidential Palace, the Afghan leader stated that "Afghans want to embrace lasting and national peace" that could ensure the honor and dignity of the people of Afghanistan.
During Eid al-Adha, the largest annual religious festival observed Sunday, faithful Afghans offered their prayers amid tight security in Kabul and other cities and so far no unpleasant incident has been reported.
Ghani also noted that holding presidential election is essential and the government has taken all preparations for the polling scheduled for Sept. 28.
The Afghan president also called for Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace talks, emphasizing that no talks could deliver result in the absence of Afghan government's delegation.
Fire brigade in Shanghai holds group wedding
Tourists enjoy ice sculptures in Datan Town, north China
Sunset scenery of Dayan Pagoda in Xi'an
Tourists have fun at scenic spot in Nanlong Town, NW China
Harbin attracts tourists by making best use of ice in winter
In pics: FIS Alpine Ski Women's World Cup Slalom
Black-necked cranes rest at reservoir in Lhunzhub County, Lhasa
China's FAST telescope will be available to foreign scientists in April
"She power" plays indispensable role in poverty alleviation
Top 10 world news events of People's Daily in 2020
Top 10 China news events of People's Daily in 2020
Top 10 media buzzwords of 2020
Year-ender:10 major tourism stories of 2020
No interference in Venezuelan issues
Biz prepares for trade spat
Broadcasting Continent
Australia wins Chinese CEOs as US loses
