(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-11-18 17:29

"Under his leadership, Pakistan has made great progress toward that vision. Over the past few years, the Pakistani people have witnessed expanded and freer media, unprecedented economic growth and development, and the moderation of gender-based laws and school curricula," Negroponte said.

In reply to questions about terrorism and extremism, Negroponte said both the countries were working to fight the menace. The issues for combating extremism in the border areas and also in Afghanistan came under discussion in his discussion with Musharraf on Saturday. He said it was the matter of high priority and concern for both the US and Pakistan.

To a question about economic and military aid, Negroponte said both countries enjoyed good friendly relations and shared common interest and were facing some common challenges including efforts against extremism. He said the US government wanted to ensure democratic evolution and to get the political process back on track.

He said that Musharraf told him he had taken some of the steps including holding of early elections and taking off uniform. He said the US urged Musharraf and his government to consider as rapidly as possible taking other remaining steps so that the elections could go forward on a satisfactory basis.

Negroponte arrived in Islamabad on two-day visit Friday and met Musharraf and other senior Pakistani government officials including National Security Advisor Tariq Aziz, Vice Chief of Army Staff General Kayani, former Foreign Minister Kasuri, and Inter-Services Intelligence Director General Taj on Saturday.

He also talked to Pakistan People's Party leader Benazir Bhutto through telephone.

Negroponte was the first top US official to visit Pakistan since Musharraf imposed emergency on November 3.

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