Al-Qaeda on run from Pakistan, says Musharraf
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Islamabad, Aug 16, IRNA -- President General Pervez Musharraf has said that al-Qaeda is on run from Pakistan because of his government campaign against the group. "I know that al-Qaeda is probably relocating elsewhere in the world. They are leaving Pakistan. They are desperate. They are trying to move from here," he told the PTV "Aap Ke Roobaroo" (Before You) program on Monday. "The strategy, we are following is aimed at attacking the source of terrorism. Source is the mastermind, and if we drive it up, I am extremely hopeful and confident that 50 to 75 percent of terrorism would be eliminated," Musharraf added. Talking about the anti-terrorism campaign, President Musharraf said, "we have achieved substantial achievements in the anti-terror campaign and the credit goes to our law enforcement agencies". Talking about Indo-Pak dialogue, President Musharraf said that pace of the confidence building measures and progress in talks are inter-linked. He condemned extremism and narrow-sightedness and appealed to what he called "silent majority" in Pakistan to come forward and counter such elements. General Musharraf dispelled the impression that he takes decision or dictation from outside and said he does not make decisions under pressure. "I don`t take dictation from anyone. But take decisions in the best national interests." "I am not the kind of person who gets dictated. I have my mind and I have the courage to standby in front of anybody in the world. That will be very clear. Nobody dictates to me," he added. Replying to a question, Musharraf said, "there is no operation in the southern Balochistan province and actions are taken only against the elements, who are firing rockets and carrying out bomb blasts". Cantonments should be established in Gawadar, Koholo and Sui for stability and development, Musharraf added. TK/TSH/1412
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