President Pervez Musharraf on Monday said Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and called for addressing the root causes of menace for long-term peace and security.
"Extremist tendencies must be condemned and discouraged as these are opposed to harmony and progress in a society. We must also eradicate extremism and violence from our society through education and reform," he added.
President Musharraf was addressing a banquet hosted in honour of visiting Yemeni leader Ali Abdullah Saleh. Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, Speaker National Assembly, federal ministers, members of parliament, Services Chiefs, diplomats and senior officials attended the banquet. Referring to the world scenario, the President said "we are living in difficult times.
While old conflicts of Palestine and Kashmir are still alive, new ones have taken shape in Iraq and Afghanistan and in addition there is the pervasive danger of terrorism and extremism."
On the Middle East situation, he said a just and honourable solution of Palestinian issue is essential for durable peace in the region.
He referred to the deteriorating security situation in Iraq and the suffering of its people and added that it is a source of great anguish to Pakistan.
"We hope that the evolving political process in that country would soon bring security and stability for the people of Iraq."
About Pakistan's efforts for establishment of peace in South Asia, the President said the country is seriously engaged in a peace process with India to resolve the longstanding Kashmir dispute that has been at the heart of conflict in the region.
"It is important that opportunity provided by improved relations and conducive international environment should be seized to address this lingering dispute in a manner acceptable to all parties, especially the people of Kashmir".
On peace and stability in Afghanistan, President Musharraf said it is vital to our interest.
"Pakistan is contributing to international efforts for rehabilitation and reconstruction in that country."
Speaking on bilateral ties with Yemen, he said the two countries have significant and hardworking and law abiding Pakistani community in Yemen, which is contributing to the development of the Middle East country.
He expressed the hope that the two countries would further develop their ties and thanked the Yemeni nation for its expression of support in the aftermath of last year's earthquake catastrophe.
Yemeni President Saleh in his speech said that his visit to Pakistan would lead to enhance ties in trade and, economic fields.
"There are immense opportunities in trade, tourism, cultural sector, and investment area."
Saleh pledged to encourage Yemeni businessmen to explore more areas of joint ventures and investment to the mutual benefit of the both countries.
He expressed a deep sense of gratitude to the President and the Pakistani government for extending warm hospitality to him and his delegation.
The Yemeni President called for early settlement of Palestinian question and preserving the unity and territorial integrity of Iraq.