A group of over 30 athletes participated in a running race in Kabul to support the extension of ceasefire by the Afghan government and welcome its efforts for peace.

The race was held from Dehmazang Square to Darul Aman Palace in the west of Kabul. 

“I participated with a strong will. We do not want war anymore. We only need peace,” Mujtaba Ahmadi, an athlete, said. 

“How long should the war continue? Peace must come,” Esmatullah Walizada, another athlete, said. 

The athletes called on the Taliban to announce a new ceasefire and leave violence. 

“They (Taliban) should join the peace process to build the country. Talents of the youths should be used,” Mohammad Karim Yaqot, an athlete, said. 

“If they (Taliban) have legal and legitimate demands, like some of our leaders that came and gained their demands, we urge the Taliban to join peace,” Sakhi Sultani, the organizer of the event,said. 

This comes after a three-day ceasefire between government and Taliban on June 15-17. Following the decision, Afghans have repeatedly called for an extension of the ceasefire by the Taliban.