Bush lauds Musharraf for shedding uniform
Bush lauds Musharraf for shedding uniform
PTI
Washington: US President George Bush has hailed Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf’s decision to do away with his uniform, saying it was a “significant step" on the road to restoration of democracy in the country, but called for the suspension of emergency law.
When asked whether Musharraf’s taking off the uniform was a significant step in trying to restore democracy in Pakistan, Bush said, “I think it is".
“I do. It is something that a lot of people doubted would ever happen. He told me he would take off his uniform and I appreciate that he kept his word," the US President said in an interview to a private TV news channel.
Praising Musharraf for his role in the war against terror, he said, “I’ve also said that President Musharraf is the person who has done a lot for Pakistan democracy. In my judgment, in order to get Pakistan back on the road to democracy, he has got to suspend the emergency law before elections".
“He has been an absolute reliable partner in dealing with extremists and radicals. It is a tough situation in the remote parts of Pakistan... there are many examples of where Pakistanis have in cooperation with US, brought to justice members of Al Qaida’s hierarchy, and I’m thankful for that," the President said.
Bush also said that he will authorize American troops to enter Pakistan if some actionable intelligence on Osama bin Laden and other members of the al Qaeda is given.
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