President Pervez Musharraf on Saturday called for joint Pakistan-US efforts to foster interfaith harmony and discourage blasphemy intended to cause offence to other people.
"We reject hate and prejudice that has recently targeted Islam and Muslim society," he stated at a banquet he hosted in honour of US President George W Bush.
"More than ever before, we need to work for inter-faith harmony and effectively discourage sinister acts of sacrilege and blasphemy intended to cause hurt and offence to other people."
Tracing Pakistan-US relations over the last six decades, Musharraf said the two countries had many phases in bilateral relations. "When we remained engaged we both benefited," he said.
He recalled that when Pakistan and the US stood together during the years of cold war and the global confrontation they helped shape the triumph of the freedom of the world.
Today, Musharraf stated, the two countries facing new challenges, have forged an enduring partnership based on principles of mutual respect for a peaceful, secure and better world.
"Pakistan and the United States are allies in combating terrorism, the new pervasive threat to the world."
He emphasised that fighting extremism and 'terrorism is a moral imperative "dictated by our own deeply cherished values and our vision for building a progressive and moderate society in Pakistan."
The President said Pakistan is dedicated to promoting a peaceful environment and bringing to a close the unfortunate chapter of conflict and tension in the region.
He referred to Pakistan-India dialogue process and said it is aimed at resolving all disputes, especially Kashmir dispute.
"The conducive international environment and improved relations between Pakistan and India offer a unique opportunity for final settlement of Kashmir dispute, acceptable to all side, especially the Kashmiri people who have suffered for far too long."
The world community, especially the United States can help by encouraging all sides to move forward towards that goal, he added.
He remarked that the technologically transformed world of today offers unprecedented opportunities to overcome the challenges, provided "we overcome the challenges of old conflicts and new threats to peace and harmony."
"We seek partnership with the US in our effort for development, and look forward to further expanding and strengthening multifaceted co-operation with the US," Musharraf said.
Pakistan, he said, is now firmly on the path of economic growth, social progress and democratic development.
"You can further assist our efforts and fortify our reforms process."
Referring to Pakistan's key strategic location, the President said it is situated at the cross-roads of Central Asia, South Asia and West Asia and has the potential to become the hub of economic activity and a catalyst for progress of our larger neighbourhood.
He expressed Pakistan's gratitude to the American nation for extending assistance, solidarity and support in the wake of October 8 earthquake.
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