Conflicting Reports Continue Over U.S.-Afghan Security Pact

"The New York Times" reports that Afghan President Hamid Karzai (pictured) has requested a personal letter from U.S. President Barack Obama acknowledging U.S. mistakes in Afghanistan.

It remains uncertain whether Washington and Kabul have agreed on a final version of a security pact covering the status of U.S. troops who remain after the drawdown of foreign forces at the end of 2014.

Aimal Faizi, spokesman for Afghan President Hamid Karzai, said on November 19 both sides had agreed to a deal giving U.S. troops immunity from Afghan law and allowing them to enter Afghan homes under exceptional circumstances only.

But U.S. State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said no final text had yet been agreed.

"The New York Times" quoted Faizi as saying Karzai had also requested a personal letter from U.S. President Barack Obama acknowledging U.S. mistakes in Afghanistan.

Obama's national security adviser, Susan Rice, has said such an offer is "not on the table."

The security pact is due to be debated by a Loya Jirga, or Grand Council, beginning on November 21 before being considered by the Afghan parliament.

Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP, and "The New York Times"