talks may be held between politicians and loyalist paramilitaries involved in orchestrating violence linked to Union Flag protests in Belfast.
Stormont First Minister and Democratic Unionist leader Peter Robinson and Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt stressed the importance of being inclusive in finding a way forward.
Northern Ireland's chief constable Matt Baggott has blamed the paramilitary Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) for the rioting.
The Unionist Forum at Stormont was convened in response to the trouble sparked by Belfast City Council's decision to limit the number of days the flag flies over City Hall.
Asked if the task force would engage with loyalist paramilitaries, Mr Robinson said: "We will talk to anyone who wants to talk to us about how we can move forward in a peaceful and democratic manner."
Mr Nesbitt added: "The lesson of the last 15 years is that the only thing that works, the only thing that sticks, is inclusive dialogue."
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