In Afghanistan, the gathering of the 'loya Jirga' has endorsed President Hamid Karzai's plan to allow long term US bases on Afghan soil.
 
Karzai insists the country's parliament will still have the final say on the shape of any strategic partnership.

The decision at the meeting brings the prospect of a long-term US presence in Afghanistan one step closer.

Al Jazeera's Bernard Smith reports from Kabul.