ISLAMABAD, Nov 30: A visiting US Congressional delegation during a meeting with President Pervez Musharraf on Friday underlined the importance of holding free, fair and transparent elections. It also praised the various steps taken by the president for the “restoration of full democracy in the country”.

Notably this is the first visit of a US Congressional delegation to Pakistan after President Musharraf stepped down as the army chief.

The four-member Congressional delegation led by Senator Bob Corker called on the president in Rawalpindi and discussed with him the recent political developments in the country, Pakistan-US relations and counter-terrorism, the Foreign Office said in a statement issued here. US Ambassador to Pakistan Anne W. Patterson attended the meeting.

The president reiterated the government’s commitment to holding elections on schedule, in a free, fair and transparent manner. “The president told the Congressional delegation that Pakistan was firmly on the path of democracy.

“In this regard, the president highlighted the steps taken recently towards the completion of the third phase of transition to full civilian rule,” the statement said.

“The members (of the delegation) also appreciated the various steps taken in the context of transition to full democracy and underlined the importance of free, fair and transparent elections,” it added.

President Musharraf advocated broad-based and long-term Pakistan-US relationship. While reaffirming Pakistan’s firm resolve to fight extremism and terrorism, he noted that a comprehensive strategy was being pursued in dealing with the menace. The president made it clear that Pakistan would not allow any entity to use its territory for terrorist activity anywhere.

In this context he also stressed the need for better understanding in America of the government’s efforts in the areas of counter-terrorism, good governance, and protection of civil liberties.

The president said he looked forward to Congressional support for stronger Pakistan-US ties and closer cooperation in diverse fields.

“For their part, the members of the Congressional delegation affirmed the strategic importance for the US of its relationship with Pakistan,” the Foreign Office statement said, adding: “The delegation lauded the president’s commitment to fight extremism and terrorism and recognised Pakistan’s contribution towards counter-terrorism efforts.

The Congressional delegation also includes Congressman David Dreier (California), Congressman Darrell Issa (California), and Congressman Joe Wilson (South Carolina). They all serve on key Congressional Committees including that of appropriations, foreign affairs and armed services.