Obama vow as Loya Jirga debates US-Afghan security deal

(BBC)—US President Barack Obama has sent a letter to Afghanistan’s leader Hamid Karzai vowing to respect his nation’s sovereignty, as Afghan elders debate a crucial post-2014 security pact.

Mr Obama vows US forces will not enter Afghan homes except for “extraordinary circumstances” – a key point of debate.

Mr Karzai urged the 2,000 elders to back the deal, which could see 15,000 foreign troops remain after 2014.

But he said it would not be signed until after elections next year.

The presidential polls will be held in less than six months’ time, and Mr Karzai has served two terms so cannot stand again.

His office could not confirm to the BBC whether Mr Karzai – or his successor – would sign the pact.

Continue reading: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-25038926