ISLAMABAD, Aug 13: President Gen Pervez Musharraf on Monday vigorously defended his government’s independence from Washington, and said he was “200 per cent sure” the United States would not launch unilateral strikes against terrorists in Pakistan.

Speaking in a nationally televised question-and-answer session with hand-picked guests, the president addressed topics ranging from his plunging public support to the role of cricket in building national character.

Gen Musharraf said he was sure upcoming legislative and presidential elections would be free and fair, and ensure economy stability.

He said US President George Bush had assured him of Pakistan’s sovereignty.

“I am fully confident and very sure that there will be no action across the border, and if there is any action it will be taken by Pakistani forces,” he said.

“I am 200 per cent sure that these threats, there are no threats at the official, government level,” he said.

President Musharraf said he would consider it a personal insult if someone suggested he was serving another country’s interests before Pakistan’s, and cited examples where he had gone against the United States’ wishes.

These included his refusal to send troops to join the US-led war in Iraq, Pakistan’s recognition of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, and its diplomatic relations with Iran.

“We are not confronting terrorism for America,” he said. “We are doing it for ourselves.”

“I see everything from Pakistan’s point of view. Now, if that, from Pakistan’s point of view, suits America, all right,” he said.

In reply to a question, he conceded that “there has been a decrease in (his) popularity”.—AP