NEW YORK, Sept 26: President Gen Pervez Musharraf plans to donate part of his book proceeds for poverty alleviation and social uplift of the people of Pakistan to whom he has dedicated his autobiography, In the Line of Fire.

In response to a question shortly before his book launch at the Council on Foreign Relations here on Monday evening, the president said he wanted to establish a foundation for the benefit of the needy, especially women.

However, he indicated that it could take some time for it to materialise. Begum Sehba Musharraf may head the foundation.

At the book launch function, the President was given a standing ovation and introduced by the vice-chairman of the Council on Foreign Relations, Robert Rubin, as a “remarkable man” with illustrious and distinguished career.

In his opening remarks, President Musharraf said he started writing the book two years back and noted: “My autobiography is my contribution to the history of our era. It is also of course my own story, a life where I look back and see the contours of an eventful, turbulent path with both luck and destiny playing leading roles.”

Furthermore, he said: “My autobiography is a window into contemporary Pakistan and my role in reshaping it…I want the world to know the truth.”

His view was: “What happens in Pakistan socially, politically and economically in the coming years, will not only help decide the outcome of the global war on terror, but will also shape what the future will look like for both Islam and the West.”