August 19, 2008	Tuesday	Sha’aban 16, 1429

LONDON, Aug. 18: President Pervez Musharraf’s resignation brings to a close a critical period in his country’s history and its relations with the UK and other countries, said British Foreign Secretary David Miliband while describing Pakistan as a vital friend of the UK.

In a statement issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office here on Monday, he said it was essential for Britain’s security that Pakistan had a strong and democratic government with a clear mandate and programme for thoroughgoing reform of its social, political and economic structures.

In this context, he said the Musharraf years yielded significant dividends, notably in the economic field but also, until last autumn, in areas like media freedom.

“It is important to highlight President Musharraf’s commitment to tackle terrorism, to promote dialogue with India, especially over Kashmir, and to root out corruption.”

But reform, he said depended above all on legitimacy “and that is why the UK has been at pains to stress the importance for Pakistan of strong institutions rather than strong individuals, and why we believe a strong democracy is key”.

He said the responsibilities on political leaders in Pakistan were now significant.

“They need to come together to ensure that the recently elected government carries forward an economic and security agenda consistent with the long-term interests of the Pakistani people,” he added.

He said the UK would remain strongly committed to its partnership with the Pakistani people, notably through its aid programme. “We will also continue to deepen our security cooperation with the new government and we will be clear about the essential nature of a new partnership between Pakistan and Afghanistan.”

He said he looked forward to the early election of a new president in Pakistan.