President General Pervez Musharraf and Australian Governor General Major General Michael Jeffers (Retd) expressed the desire to enhance Pakistan-Australia relationship here at a brief meeting ahead of the state banquet hosted by the Governor General for the president here on Tuesday. The two leaders shared the hope that both the countries would develop stronger co-operation in areas of bilateral interest.
Upon arrival at the Government House, the residence of the Governor General, Jeffers warmly received the president and expressed the hope that President Musharraf's visit - the first ever by a Pakistani head of state - would be a milestone in forging closer links.
President Musharraf briefed the host leader about Pakistan's economic achievements and its desire to develop trade and economic ties with Asian countries and Australia.
Senior members of President's delegation also attended the banquet.
On Wednesday, President Musharraf and Prime Minister John Howard will hold formal talks on imparting a new boost to bilateral ties through increased trade.
The Australian prime minister will host a luncheon for the visiting Pakistani leader.
On arrival President Musharraf was accorded state welcome at the Parliament House, where Prime Minister John Howard and Australian Governor General Major General Michael Jeffery (Retd) received him.
A 21-gun salute boomed as the president arrived for the ceremony for a rare reception at the Parliament House.
Later, the president visited the Australian War Memorial. He laid a wreath and observed a minute's silence at the grave of an unknown soldier dedicated to the Australians who lost their lives in wars. He also signed in the visitors book.
The delegation includes Industries Minister Jehangir Khan Tareen, Higher Education Commission Chairman Dr Attaur Rehman, Export Promotion Bureau Chairman Tariq Ikram, Information Secretary Shahid Rafi and Foreign Affairs Secretary Riaz Muhammad Khan.
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