BIDEN TO REVOKE DESIGNATION OF AFGHANISTAN AS MAJOR NON-NATO ALLY

Thu 07 July 2022:

U.S. President Joe Biden notified Congress on Wednesday of his intent to officially rescind Afghanistan‘s designation as a major non-NATO ally.

In a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the President wrote: “In accordance with section 517 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended (22 U.S.C. 2321k), I am providing notice of my intent to rescind the designation of Afghanistan as a Major Non‑NATO Ally.”

In July 2012, the U.S. named Afghanistan a major non-NATO ally, which made it easier for Kabul to receive defense equipment from Washington.

Unlike NATO allies of the United States, who are bound together by a joint defense pact, there is no mutual defense guarantee as a non-NATO ally. These allies are eligible to receive material and supply loans, as well as serve as a location for US-owned war reserve stockpiles.

Additionally, private companies from the designated country can bid on contracts to maintain, repair or overhaul US military equipment overseas.

The Taliban seized control of Afghanistan after taking Kabul on Aug. 15, 2021, forcing President Ashraf Ghani and other top officials to leave the country.

The unexpected power grab triggered a rush to flee Afghanistan, including civilians who assisted foreign soldiers or groups and feared the Taliban’s retribution.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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