In their view this approach does not preclude continued American attempts to construct new blocs.

Immediately, 32 governors announced their support for the new bloc.

This is not to suggest a new bloc between the Soviets and the West.

"We're against any new bloc, new front or new alliance," he said.

In addition to the hard-line opposition, a new centrist bloc had arisen with the power to swing votes to the right or left.

The chief goal of the new political bloc is to change Afghanistan's constitution and introduce a parliamentary system to create a more representative government.

"The main goals are to exclude the Sadrists from decision-making and, after the formation of a new bloc, to replace the prime minister," he said.

Britain looks likely to be joined by Sweden outside the new bloc, doubling the strength of the outer core against an inner 25.

We are only setting up a new military bloc, which I do not believe is a good idea.

However, he stopped short of saying that they would join the new bloc.