The United States Defense Secretary Mark Esper has expressed the hope that after a ceasefire deal with Taliban troops level in Afghanistan will be reduced.

In an interview with news agency Reuters, he however said U.S. military commanders would still focus on the threats associated with two other militant groups, Al-Qaedda and Daesh.

Mark Esper said if honored by all sides, a ceasefire could lead to a significant reduction in violence in Afghanistan.

There are currently about 13,000 U.S troops in Afghanistan and U.S. officials have said forces could drop to 8,600.

NNR/Khokhar