Women's rights under Islamic law to amnesty for all: What Taliban said in 1st address

In the first address after taking over Kabul, the Taliban clarified the stance of the future Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan on issues like women rights, press freedom, international relationships etc.

The Taliban held their first official press conference in Kabul clarifying their stance on prominent issues. The message sent through the address is that Taliban 2.0 is dovish and conciliatory. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid addressed the conference and reiterated that there will be no execution and punishment -- hallmarks of the Taliban's previous time in power two decades ago.

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid addressing the first press conference in Kabul on August 17. (AFP)

Here's what the Taliban said:

No revenge: Taliban would not seek retribution against former soldiers and government officials, and would grant an amnesty for former soldiers as well as contractors and translators who worked for international forces. "All those in the opposite side are pardoned from A to Z. We will not seek revenge," the spokesperson said.

Taliban 1.0 and Taliban 2.0: If the question is based on ideology, and beliefs, there is no difference between Taliban during 1996 and 2001, but if calculated on experience, maturity, and insight, no doubt there are many differences.

Women rights: Women would be allowed to work and study and "will be very active in society but within the framework of Islam.

International relations: Taliban don't want to repeat any conflict, any war again, and they want to do away with the factors for conflict. "Taliban would not allow Afghanistan to be used as a base for attacking other countries, as it was in the years before 9/11," the spokesperson said.

(With agency inputs)