eace and stability in Afghanistan, Musharraf said, is in Pakistan's vital interest, for it would assure tranquility on the western frontiers and enable the country to realise its ambition of linking Central Asia and South Asia through Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Stating that one of Pakistan's "strategic" aims is to utilise is "unique geo-strategic" position to build trade, energy and communication corridors linking South Asia, West Asia, Central Asia and China, he said that regional integration would accelerate economic growth and prosperity. Despite "daunting challenges" Pakistan is facing from within and without, he said it is "boldly" trying to build an environment of peace and stability in the region.
Musharraf, who returned to the theme of terrorism several times, said the greatest challenge to global security, campaign against terrorism and credibility of the United Nations is the "cauldron" of conflict that is the Middle East.
The attack on Lebanon has far reaching implications for the Middle East, he said, adding that the ability and relevance of the moderate forces to bring about a just peace in the region has been put to a severe test. "The world must, however, still support them to address the festering problems of the region, comprehensively and fairly, he said, calling for ending Israel's conflicts with all its neighbours and resolving the Palestine problem.
Image: Demonstrators rally in favour of Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf in Dag Hammarskjold Plaza near the United Nations.
Photographs: Michael Nagle/Getty Images
Also see:
US arms, dollars for Pakistan's loyalty
'When terror strikes India, Pakistan loses'
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