ISLAMABAD, Jan 19: A nine-member delegation of the Washington-based Aspen Institute on Saturday called on President Gen Pervez Musharraf and lauded his initiatives for peace in the region.

The delegation, which comprises prominent scholars, journalists, former diplomats and entrepreneurs, is currently on a study tour of South Asia.

Led by Phillip Zelikow, the chairman of the Aspen Institute, the US team arrived in Islamabad from New Delhi on Friday.

The members of the delegation praised the Jan 12 speech of President Musharraf, describing it as a statement of historic importance and a courageous and impressive step.

They also commended the role of the Pakistani leadership in the fight against terrorism and the president’s bold measures for reducing tension in South Asia.

President Musharraf discussed with the US team the border tension between Pakistan and India, and stressed the need for de-escalation and resolving all the bilateral issues, including Kashmir, through talks.

He emphasized the importance of early resumption of dialogue, and called upon the international community to help the two countries move in that direction.

The president reaffirmed his country’s commitment to support the fight against terrorism, and underscored the importance of addressing its root causes.

He urged the international community to remain engaged in helping the Afghans rebuild their society.

He told the delegations about his government’s priorities, specially economic revival and the institutional reforms, to ensure good governance and social sector development. He mentioned the numerous initiatives and programmes that are being implemented by the government in this regard.—APP