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Musharraf says he didn't succumb to Indian pressure

K J M Varma in Islamabad

Asserting that he would continue to play his role as the country's president despite stiff opposition from mainstream political and religious parties, General Pervez Musharraf on Wednesday said one of the main achievements of his government was its success in withstanding pressure from India.

Addressing the nation simultaneously over the television and radio ahead of the prime ministerial election on Thursday, Musharraf said he would continue to play his role for the development and security of the country.

The military ruler said he had fulfilled all promises made when he took over power in a coup in October, 1999.

Outlining his foreign policy achievements, Musharraf said his government had upheld the honour and dignity of Pakistan and highlighted the Kashmir issue at all international fora.

He said his government was able to boost the prestige of the country at a very difficult time.

Without directly referring to the opposition from political parties to his decision to continue as president and their refusal to accept his constitutional reforms, Musharraf asked the new leadership to assume the reins of power with confidence and build on the foundations laid down by his government.

Taking a dig at previous governments headed by Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif, he said they had failed to come up to the expectations of the people.

PTI

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