ISLAMABAD, Dec 30: President General Pervez Musharraf on Sunday said Pakistan wanted to defuse the brewing crisis with India, but was prepared to respond vigorously to any attack.

“Pakistan stands for peace, wants peace, wants to de-escalate. Let the two countries move towards peace and harmony,” Musharraf told reporters after a meeting of political parties held to discuss the escalating tensions.

“However, Pakistan has taken all counter measures. If any war is thrust on Pakistan, the Pakistan armed forces and the 140 million people of Pakistan are fully prepared to face all consequences with all their might.”

“Any sane person would not opt for such a course as going to war. I hope it does not lead to that,” he said.

“We are hoping for the best, but we are prepared for the worst.”

Musharraf said that during the meeting on Sunday “there was total consensus of views and I have the support of all political parties.”—AFP