ISLAMABAD, Jan 13: US President George Bush, in a telephonic conversation with President Gen Pervez Musharraf on Sunday, praised the latter for his “candid, courageous and statesman-like” address to the nation, and assured United States’ continued full support to Pakistan.

“It’s reflective of Pakistan’s commitment to peace, harmony and rejection of terrorism, in any form and manifestation,” President Bush stated, adding that the Kashmir problem should be resolved peacefully through negotiations.

According to official sources, President Bush hoped that President Musharraf’s speech would also help defuse tensions between India and Pakistan. He assured him that the US would play its part in de-escalating the strained atmosphere.

He said President Musharraf candidly dwelt at length on the various problems facing the Pakistani society and commended Gen Musharraf’s determination to make Pakistan a progressive and modern country.

President Bush was all praise for President Musharraf’s efforts to put Pakistan on the path of peace, harmony and progress.

“The measures announced will certainly help in easing of tension in the region, and it’s a positive sign,” he stated, adding: “Your sagacious observations have earned respect of the international community for yourself and for Pakistan.”

President George Bush also appreciated the contribution made by Pakistan in curbing of international terrorism, as an important coalition partner.

Meanwhile, United States Secretary of State Colin Powell termed it “appreciable, courageous and principled stand of President Gen Pervez Musharraf.”

In a telephonic conversation earlier with President Gen Pervez Musharraf, he said the offer of talks to Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee for sorting out differnces was an encouraging step.

President Gen Pervez Musharraf had said that Pakistan firmly believed in the norms of good neighbourliness, high decorum and decency, and our stand to curb terrorism had all along been a matter of principle and commitment.—APP