ISLAMABAD, March 28: President General Pervez Musharraf has said that staging of the SAF Games 2004 will pave the way for strengthening friendship and harmony among the SAARC member countries.

This was stated by the President in a message on the occasion of 9th South Asian Federation (SAF) Games-2004. "I am delighted that the 9th South Asian Federation (SAF) Games are finally commencing form March 29th.

"I hope that the holding of these games will pave the way for strengthening friendship and harmony among the SAARC member countries. "The games are a reflection of the wishes and aspirations of the people of SAARC countries, who desire mutual cooperation and understanding in all spheres of life.

"I am sure that the gathering of sportsmen from South Asia will provide an opportunity to their youth and help promote understanding and a spirit of fraternity among the people of the region. I congratulate the SAF Games Organising Committee for their dedicated efforts in making the event a success".

PRIME MINISTER: Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali has said that Pakistan has always striven to foster amiable relations with all its neighbours and resolve its all outstanding issues amicably and peacefully, in his message on the occasion of the 9th South Asian Federation Games 2004.

The present Muslim League government, he said has given fresh impetus to the peace process, and "I hope that, on their part, the SAF Games will add a bright new chapter to this ongoing process".

The main objective of the Ninth SAF Games, he said, is topromote goodwill and friendliness through sports between the eight participating states, which should go a long way in making mutual understanding and tolerance flourish in an atmosphere of healthy competition. -APP