Musharraf Calls for Broad-Based Government, Peace in Afghanistan

Pakistani President General Pervez Musharraf has emphasized the need for an early restoration of peace in Afghanistan, preservation of its integrity and establishment of a broad-based government without foreign interference.

In an interview with Pakistan TV Monday night, Musharraf said the broad-based government should represent all Afghan groups, but no solution should be imposed on Afghanistan.

He stressed that instead of any outside interference, Afghans should be encouraged to find a political solution of the crisis. He said Pakistan wants a friendly government in Kabul.

Musharraf urged the United Nations and the developed countries to play an active role in reconstruction of Afghanistan, otherwise the situation could lead to anarchy as it happened after withdrawal of the Soviet Union.

He expressed hope that the on-going operation in Afghanistan would finish by Ramzanul Mubarak as its continuation during the holy month would have negative impact in the Islamic world. He said the operation should be short and targeted.

The President reiterated that the decision to support the international coalition against terrorism was taken in the best interest of the country. He said it would take some time for the economic benefits of the decision to materialize. He, however, was confident that with the passage of time, the country's economy would improve and it would be able to get rid of the debt.

He reminded those who are resorting to agitation that "India would have reaped benefits of any wrong decision by Pakistan." He said as a result of the government's decision to align with the international coalition, the country's strategic interests are now safe. He said he has told religious and political leaders that the decision of the government is not against Islam.

He called upon India that instead of hurling threats it should adopt the course of negotiations. Referring to statements of the Indian Ministers for Defence and Interior, he said threats would harm and not benefit India.

He noted with satisfaction that the entire world and the Union Nations have recognized Kashmir as a dispute and stressed the need for a negotiated settlement. He said he has told world leaders that it was unfortunate that all the international disputes are considered as issues of Muslims. There is a need to project them in their true perspective, he added.






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