ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- Pakistan's interior minister said Tuesday night the country welcomes the Taliban's announcement of a cease-fire but the militants must put down their weapons.
"I have no formal information about Taliban's cease-fire announcement and offer, however, we will welcome unilaterally cease-fire offer of Taliban," Rehman Malik told reporters, while adding that the Taliban would have to lay down their weapons if they are sincere about seeking peace.
The government-run Associated Press of Pakistan reported the interior minister was referring to an ambush the day before that killed 14 Pakistani military personnel, including a major, in the Chamalang area. He said the attack was proof of militants' intent to destabilize the country.
The Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan said in its announcement the cease-fire would bring peace in the country.
