ISLAMABAD, March 19: Commander United States Central Command General Tommy R. Franks and United States Assistant Secretary of State Christina Rocca and other senior members of their delegation called on President Gen Pervez Musharraf here on Tuesday.

During the course of the meeting, the president expressed his condolences and sympathies over the loss of valuable lives in the recent terrorist strike in Islamabad, an official announcement said.

US Assistant Secretary of State Christina Rocca had arrived here on Monday, cutting short her visit to New Delhi. However, Gen Tomy Franks came here the same day on a scheduled official visit.

Gen Franks had earlier visited Pakistan in January when the tensions between India and Pakistan were at a dangerous pitch.

The president reiterated the determination of his government to continue its fight against violence and terrorism, stating that stern action would be taken against the culprits, it said.

Gen Franks said that both the countries required continued commitment and resolve to fight against terrorism and other heinous crimes.

The regional situation, with particular reference to military, political and reconstruction issues in Afghanistan, came under discussion and it was agreed that all were inter-linked and reinforced each other.

The Chairman, Joint Chief of Staff Committee, Gen Muhammad Aziz Khan, Vice Chief of Army Staff Gen Muhammad Yousuf Khan and US Ambassador in Islamabad Wendy Chamberlin were present during the meeting.