Afghan Defense Minister Mohammed Fahim is denying claims by Pakistan's president that a lack of control inside Afghanistan is allowing the Taleban and al-Qaida to regroup there.
He said it is more likely that these groups are reorganizing along the southeastern border with Pakistan.
Mr. Fahim also said it is probable that Taleban leader Mullah Mohammed Omar and al-Qaida leader Osama Bin Laden are both still alive.
In an interview with the French News Agency Monday, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf said the Taleban and al-Qaida could be regrouping in Afghanistan because it is a tribal country and the new Afghan government in Kabul does not exercise control throughout the nation.