September is a crucial month for Afghanistan. U.S.-Taliban talks are moving toward an American troop withdrawal deal, while presidential elections scheduled for later in the month are fast approaching.

The latest episode of The AfPak File takes stock of where things stand with peace negotiations and the upcoming elections; considers the challenges ahead for both; and highlights what to look for in the coming weeks.

Joining the discussion are Hameed Hakimi, a research associate at Chatham House; Dr. Nilofar Sakhi, a lecturer at George Mason University; Barmak Pazhwak, a senior program officer at the U.S. Institute of Peace; and Michael Kugelman, Asia Program deputy director and senior associate for South Asia at the Wilson Center.

Muhammad Tahir, media manager for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, serves as moderator.

This podcast was originally posted on RFE/RL.