The new US commander in Afghanistan has outlined a major change of strategy to improve security in areas where Taleban guerrillas continue to operate. General David Barno said US bases would be set up in the south-east, where the violence has forced international aid agencies to pull out. He said the move would also open the way for landmark elections next year. His comment came as Afghanistan’s grand assembly appeared to have made progress on agreeing key constitutional issues. Delegates at the loya jirga debating the country’s draft constitution reportedly agreed in principle to back a strong presidential system supported by Afghan interim President Hamid Karzai. Full Story