President Pervez Musharraf has termed the convening of the new parliament a historical event and expressed the confidence that Pakistan would continue to make progress on the path of democracy and economic growth. Talking to Ambassador Richard Holbrooke, former US Permanent Representative to the United Nations, who also currently holds Chair of the Asia Society, Musharraf said the new parliament has come into being as a result of free, fair, transparent and peaceful elections, according to an official statement. Ambassador Holbrooke appreciated President's commitment to democracy and the holding of peaceful election. During the meeting, they exchanged views on recent political developments, Pakistan-US relations and regional situation. Holbrooke underlined the importance that the U.S attached to its relationship with Pakistan. Musharraf reiterated Pakistan's firm resolve to fight extremism and terrorism. In this context, he highlighted the multi-pronged strategy being followed in the tribal areas comprising military, political and socio-economic components. The president underlined the importance of accelerated progress on initiatives like Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (ROZs) and support for the tribal areas development plan. Holbrooke agreed on the need for enhanced US support for such initiatives.
