ISLAMABAD, Nov 5: President Gen Pervez Musharraf on Friday called on US President George W. Bush to push for a peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue and other festering political conflicts during his second term.

"If the root causes of strife and terror were resolved in a meaningful and just manner, it would usher in an era of peace and harmony," President Musharraf said in a congratulatory telephone talk with the US leader on his re-election.

He urged Mr Bush "to use this unique opportunity to work for the resolution of Palestine and other festering disputes", said a foreign ministry statement here.

Gen Musharraf said: "There is a need, more than ever, for initiation of processes for closing fronts," in apparent reference to Kashmir and the Middle East conflicts.

"He offered to join hands to bring civilizations together and embark on a new era of constructive partnerships." He also offered the US leader "full support in achieving the shared objectives of peace and prosperity for the peoples of the two countries".

During the 20-minute telephonic conversation, the two leaders reaffirmed the common desire to further strengthen bilateral relations to the benefit of both countries. President Bush said the people of the United States greatly valued their country's relationship with Pakistan. -Agencies

Opinion

Editorial

A difficult story
Updated 12 Jun, 2026

A difficult story

Unless productivity becomes the dominant target of economic policy, Pakistan will continue to oscillate between crises and fragile recovery.
Rough waters
12 Jun, 2026

Rough waters

AMONGST the key potential triggers for fresh conflict in South Asia is water. The Indian state is behaving in an...
Politicised football
12 Jun, 2026

Politicised football

ALMOST three-and-half years since Lionel Messi led Argentina to FIFA World Cup glory, the latest edition of...
GB polls’ aftermath
Updated 11 Jun, 2026

GB polls’ aftermath

The new administration must address the region’s issues proactively.
Peace in retreat
11 Jun, 2026

Peace in retreat

THE ceasefire announced in April was supposed to create space for negotiations. Instead, it has been repeatedly...
A few good men
11 Jun, 2026

A few good men

IT was a brave move, no doubt. This Tuesday, in the land of the Afghan Taliban, a few good men decided to take a...