Afghanistan wants to be designated a significant U.S. ally - latimes

Karzai's interest in being named a 'major non-NATO ally' makes this week's White House meetings particularly delicate.

Afghan officials are particularly interested in the "major non-NATO ally" designation, a status enjoyed by Japan, Australia, South Korea, Israel and other strategically important countries outside Europe. The designation brings with it access to U.S. military technology and other benefits. - Afghanistan wants to be designated a significant U.S. ally

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