Saudi Arabia is mediating between Taliban and Afghan officials to prevent Pakistan from sliding into civil war and to wean the Taliban away from al-Qaeda, anonymous diplomats told Reuters. "They want to help because Pakistan is frightening. They fear what could happen in Pakistan. This (mediation) is to stabilize Pakistan," said one diplomat privy to details of the talks held recently in Mecca. The sources said Saudi external intelligence chief Prince Muqrin and his predecessor Prince Turki al-Faisal were involved in arranging the mediation, which is at an early stage. (Pakistan Daily Times, Oct. 16)

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