PESHAWAR, Jan 2: Opposition leaders must reciprocate the goodwill gesture made by the president in his televised address because the country cannot afford the politics of confrontation and agitation , says former minister of state for industries Mohammad Anis Elahi Sethi.

The Pakistan Muslim League leader said that the president's offer of cooperation to the opposition should be respected so that democracy could flourish. This time around, he said, the parliament should be allowed to complete its tenure, adding that opposition leaders should demonstrate patience and tolerance.

He said that the president had clearly outlined his vision and policies aimed at the country's development. Mr Sethi said that the country had prospered and developed during the past five years because of the dynamic policies of President Gen Pervez Musharraf. "Pakistan has attained a dignified place among the comity of nations because of his (the president's) consistent policies," he maintained.

He said that the president had stressed the need for the construction of small and big dams to preserve water for the better future of the country. He also urged for maintaining friendly relations with the neighbouring countries. -APP