DHAKA: A meeting of Afghan elders is expected to back a security pact letting thousands of US troops remain after combat operations end in 2014.

Sources said more than 75% favour a deal being signed this year, contrary to what president Hamid Karzai wants.

He told the opening session of the assembly or Loya Jirga that it would be signed after elections due next year.

The US has said it is neither ‘practical nor possible’ to delay the signing, reports the BBC.

More than 2,000 elders have been meeting behind closed doors for the past few days.

They are expected to set out their final position on Sunday, when president Karzai makes his closing speech.

BDST: 1400 HRS, NOV 24, 2013