President Pervez Musharraf on Wednesday assured the US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice that Pakistan 's February 18 general elections would be free, fair and peaceful, and the government would make sure equal participation of all political parties.
He gave this assurance during a meeting with her soon after arriving here to participate in the three-day World Economic Forum (WEF) in progress from January 23. It was his first meeting with any important leader in Davos.
The two discussed all aspects of Pak-US relations, including Pakistan 's pivotal role in global war on terrorism. Musharraf stressed the importance of broad-based long-term relationship to protect the interests of the two countries. He apprised Condoleezza about a multi-pronged strategy being pursued by Pakistan to combat terrorism and extremism.
He said that Pakistan's strategy covers political, administrative and military means. He also updated her on measures taken by Pakistan for holding general elections in free and peaceful atmosphere. He said that Pakistan was committed to firmly remain democratic, despite recent troubling events. He informed Rice about the progress on Benazir's assassination.
Rice appreciated Pakistan 's role and contribution in the war on terrorism and assured President Musharraf of continued support to fight out the terrorists and militants. She expressed hope that February 18 elections would further consolidate the democratic process in Pakistan.