Musharraf condemns Benazir's assassination, orders state mourning

Islamabad, Dec 27 (UNI) Strongly condemning the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto as the ''act of terrorists we are combatting,'' Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf tonight appealed to the people to be steadfast in fighting extremism, which he termed the greatest danger to the country.

Announcing a three-day mourning for the slain leader, during which the national flag will be flown at half mast, Gen (retd) Musharraf asked the people pledge to combat and eradicate terrorism root and stock, and not rest till this was accomplished.

''This is the only way to development of the country....terrorism is the biggest obstacle to progress,'' he said, in a brief address on national TV.

He appealed to the people to be calm and keep peace.

The President convened a high-level emergency meeting here soon after Ms Bhutto was assassinated. Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammadmian Soomro was also present.

UNI