Rice supports Musharraf against terrorism, transition towards democracy

US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice called on President Musharraf here this afternoon and reiterated her country support in its endeavour to stop terrorism and heading towards complete democracy.
During the meeting, Rice said that President Musharraf has indeed taken some solid steps for rooting out the menace of terrorism and extremism and transition towards democratic set up, diplomatic sources told APP. She expressed confidence that moderate political forces will emerge as a result of the forthcoming general elections in running the affairs of the government.
The US Secretary of State also emphasized the need for more close cooperation between Pakistan and the US in fighting terrorism and maintaining economic progress.
Meanwhile, a written statement issued after the meeting says that the two sides discussed all aspects of Pakistan US relation including Pakistan pivotal role in the global war on terror. President Musharraf stressed the importance of a broad-based, long term Pakistan-US relationships which would serve the interests of both countries.
President Musharraf briefed Rice about the multi-pronged strategy pursued by Pakistan in combating extremism and terrorism through political, administrative and military means. He also updated her on measures taken by government for holding free, fair transparent and peaceful elections in Pakistan Feb 18.
Despite the recent troubling events, Pakistan remains firmly on democratic path, said the Musharraf.
Secretary Rice appreciated Pakistan enormous contribution and sacrifices made in the war against terrorism and assured President Musharraf of continued US support in this endeavour.
She expressed the hope that forthcoming elections will further consolidate democracy in Pakistan.
The meeting lasted for nearly 40 minutes. Secretary of State Rice was assisted by two assistant secretaries of state.
Foreign Secretary Riaz Muhammad Khan assisted President Musharraf.