Loya Jurga backs Karzai but urges swift deal with USA

The special Loya Jurga or tribal gathering In Afghanistan called by President Karzai has ended with the assembly approving a document that allows American forces to stay in the country after 2014.

The assembly called for the agreement to be signed and put in place rapidly, but Karzai says he would rather wait until after the April presidential elections, the security for which he want the Americans to assure.

“Peace is our main condition for this agreement. America should bring us peace and we will eagerly accept this agreement with them, and accepting your decision we will sign it.”

Karzai’s critics say he wants the Americans around to support his election campaign, while the Americans have said they want to sign before the end of the year to give them time to ensure a smooth transition. April would be too late says Washington, which threatens a total pullout if Karzai delays till next year.