This year the generation of Afghans born in 2001, when a U.S.-backed coalition toppled the Taliban, comes of age. As the United States engages in talks with the militants, young Afghans speak of their hopes and concerns for the future.
Hopes And Fears Of Young Afghans As Taliban Talks Advance
1
Maram Atayee, 16, a pianist at the Afghan National Institute of Music, is concerned about a future role in government for the Taliban. "The thing I'm most worried about is that if they return, I won't be able to continue playing music."
2
Anosh Sarwari, 23, works in a coffee shop. "We are thirsty for peace. We want peace so people can run their businesses and live comfortably."
3
Doctor Mohammad Jawed Momand, 22. "Peace requires everyone to lay down their arms, and think about education and prosperity in our country."
4
Artist Mahdi Zahak, 25. "There is hope for peace. But the only way we can have peace is if they (the Taliban) accept the achievements made in this country in the past 17 years and let everyone enjoy their lives."