Musharraf leaves for Europe tour

Islamabad, Jan 20 : Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf today left for Europe tour to meet with dignitaries in Britain, France, Belgium and at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

He will be looking to bolster his, and Pakistan's image. Musharraf will like to re-establish his credibility with the EU nations, after months of political turmoil in the country.

Musharraf will also meet with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice while in Davos, and will look to reiterate Pakistan's commitment to both the war on terror, and the democratic process.

Earlier, Musharraf and Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro urged the nation to rise above radicalism, sectarianism and prejudices to counter the forces spreading dissent in the society.

In separate messages to the nation on Muharram, the two leaders warned about the challenges confronting the country and the need for standing united, seeking guidance from Islamic teachings and by rising above all differences to meet these threats.

"We have to adopt great teachings of Islam by rising above sectarian, regional and petty differences. We also have to strengthen peace, harmony and brotherhood in the society," Musharraf said.

Musharraf said Pakistan was facing circumstances that required adhering to the spirit of Usswa-e-Shabbiri - the doings of Hazrat Imam Hussain -for country's security and defence.

He asked the nation to work hand-in-hand for the projection of prosperity and eradication of ignorance from the society.

ANI