By Islamuddin Sajid </p> <p>ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (AA) – U.S. special envoy for peace in Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, on Monday met with the Taliban’s top political leader in Doha.</p> <p>"Today, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar participated in a meeting and introduced his team with U.S. officials," Zabihullah Mujahid, the Taliban spokesman, said in a statement. </p> <p>Baradar highlighted the importance of negotiations, authority of the negotiation team and the future roadmap to end 18-year-long conflict in Afghanistan, Mujahid said. </p> <p>Meanwhile, Khalilzad appreciated the role of Qatar and Pakistan in the ongoing peace process.</p> <p>"Appreciate #Qatar for hosting & #Pakistan in facilitating travel. Now the work begins in earnest," Khalilzad said in a Twitter post and added he is meeting with a more authoritative Taliban delegation which could be a significant moment.</p> <p>"Just finished a working lunch with Mullah Baradar and his team. First time we've met. Now moving on to talks," Khalilzad added.</p> <p>The formal talks between U.S. and Taliban will begin on Tuesday, where Khalilzad will lead the U.S. team.</p> <p>"Taliban team will be led by Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai, while guidance will be sought from Mullah Baradar where necessary," Mujahid said.