DHAKA: Taliban insurgents have set tough terms for peace talks with the Pakistani government, demanding the release of all imprisoned fighters and the withdrawal of troops from the tribal areas.

Pakistan officials said on Monday, reports The Straits Times.

The militants outlined their demands to a team of Islamist clerics who are holding talks with the government on the Taliban’s behalf about ending a seven-year insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives.

Negotiating teams held a first meeting on Thursday, but the dozen conditions now laid down by the Tehreek-e-Taleban Pakistan (TTP) will further fuel doubts about chances of success.

BDST: 1605 HRS, FEB 10, 2014