11.   The reported plans were dismissed as ludicrous by a military adviser to a top resistance commander, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

12.   The top resistance commander, Gen. Nhek Bunchhay, has agreed to cease-fire talks but prefers mediation by the United Nations to give any deal more authority.

13.   They said they learned of the plan after questioning a captured resistance commander.

14.   But he acknowleged some defections to his side including Toan Chhay, a former resistance commander who is now the governor of northern Siem Reap province.

15.   Kharzai also referred to the absence of Ahmad Shah Masood, the assassinated resistance commander whose portrait was propped on an empty chair amid the line of dignitaries.