BAHAWALPUR, Jan 21: President Gen Pervez Musharraf has said that Pakistan desired peace but its valiant armed forces were fully prepared to thwart any attempt at misadventure by the adversary.

The president was addressing a large concentration of troops deployed in the forward areas of Thar and Cholistan deserts here on Monday.

The president said that after the tragic incident of Sept 11, Pakistan joined the world coalition against terrorism in the best interest of the country.

“This decision was taken to maintain own security, preserve our strategic assets, boost our economy and improve our internal situation. Our adversary, disappointed with the stature that Pakistan has attained as an important coalition partner has now indulged in hurling false allegations against us and concentrated troops on Pakistan’s borders,” he said.

Gen Musharraf said: “We have repeatedly condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. However, should the enemy resort to any misadventure we are fully prepared to meet the challenge.”

The troops showed a lot of enthusiasm during the president’s speech. Later, the president mingled with the troops and junior leaders.—APP