20000326

Clinton terms

democracy as

cure for all

evils

ISLAMABAD: Addressing the people of Pakistan on Radio and Television US President Bill Clinton reforming to the importance of dermocracy, said its path is long and ardous. Democracy itself provides cure of all its ills. He conceded that past democratic governments had not done nothing specific for the welfare of people of Pakistan and people's despondency with them was genuine.

He noted that general pervez Musharraf had announced the holding of local bodies elections as a first step towards democracy. At the same time he conceded that no outsider can tell Pakistani people what sort of government should be formed here.

President Clinton said for over 50 years Pakistan and the United States have been partners. He said he is visiting Pakistan as a friend. He referred to Pakistan's help to the United States in opening dialogue with China and said the two countries were also togather when Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan. He said their partnership helped to end the cold war.

He said Pakistan and the United States have also cooperated in fight against drug and terrorism and their soldiers were togather in missions of peace in every part of the world.

President Clinton said the American people do not want to see tension rise in South Asia, adding he shared concerns of Pakistan about Kashmir and emphasised that fundamental rights of the people their must be respected.

Quoting Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal profusely the American President pointed out that the salvation of Pakistan lies in following the teachings of its founder and the poet philospher.

US President said he is a great fan of the Indus Valley civilisation and he is here as a friend of Pakistan. He is anxious about the security of Pakistan and ready to stand with the people of Pakistan in this capacity.

President Clinton said he had worked hard to improve American relations with the Islamic world and in this connection referred to his support to the Muslims of Bosnia and Kosovo.ÑPPI