A crucial role is seen for the former king

Pir Gailani, an ethnic Pashtun like Taleban members, said he would welcome the co-operation of those Taleban who also agreed to the ideas of peace and a broad-based government.

"I consider their co-operation signficant and fruitful" he said. Most of those attending the meeting appeared to be Pir Gailani's supporters - an indication of the support he commands and a sign that he is likely to play a signficant role in any future administration.

The BBC's Susannah Price, who is in Peshawar, suggests that while this is a start, there is a long way to go before any administration representing all ethnic groups and political beliefs could be agreed.

Tribal divide

Afghanistan is made up of a patchwork of fractious tribes that throughout the country's history have fought for control.

It is unclear if any trust exists between leaders of the Northern Alliance, who are mainly Tajiks, Uzbeks and Hazara peoples from the north of the country, and moderate members of the Pashtun tribe who back the Taleban.

Pakistan says some moderate Taleban representation should be included in any future government as Pashtuns make up 40% of the population.