John Lindh travelled to Afghanistan to help the ruling Taleban fight against Russian-backed insurgents. Then 9/11 happened. US troops tortured him, tried him as a terrorist and jailed him for 20 years.

We need to hear what really matters from the Prime Minister.

As John Key prepares for a White House visit next week, New Zealand's Pacific role is growing in value.

Our misplaced trust in the Government over our role in a far-off war has come back to haunt us.

Australian troops will remain in Afghanistan - possibly beyond the present exit target of 2014.