'Want a real Islamic system in Afghanistan', says Taliban

The statement came at a time when talks between the Taliban and Afghan government representatives in Qatar have slackened and violence has risen dramatically ahead of the withdrawal of foreign troops by September 11.

Afghan officials expressed concern over the stalemate in the talks, saying the Taliban had not prepared any written peace proposals that could be used as a starting point for concrete talks.

The head of the Taliban's political office, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, said in a statement: "We believe that the world and the Afghan people have questions about the nature of the system that will be established after the withdrawal of foreign troops."

He added that the issue was well addressed in the Doha talks.

"The real Islamic system is the best solution to all the problems of Afghans," he said. “Our participation in the talks and their support is a clear indication that we want to resolve issues based on mutual understanding.”

He added that women and minorities would be protected and diplomats and NGO workers would be able to work in a safe environment.

Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar said: "We are committed to protecting the rights of our country's citizens, whether men or women, following the rules of the glorious religion of Islam and the high traditions of Afghan society."

He added that women would be provided with facilities for work and education.

However, it is unclear whether women will be allowed to play a role in public offices or whether men and women will be segregated in the workplace and schools.

A Taliban spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

In May, US intelligence analysts released an assessment that the Taliban would reverse progress on Afghan women's rights once it returned to power.