I am running the government, not President Zardari: Gilani

Lahore, Dec.1 (ANI): Rejecting reports of differences with President Asif Ali Zardari, Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said he is running the government, and not the President.

"President Zardari is the head of the state and I am the head of the government. It is childish to ask as to who is running the government. I am running the government, not President Zardari," Gilani told a German news agency.

"I am the chief executive of the state and only the chief executive runs the affairs," said Gilani, who is currently on a visit to Germany.

Responding to a query about a change in the cabinet, he said any decision in this regard would be taken after consulting coalition partners.

Referring to the Baloch issue, Gilani said his government was trying hard to resolve the issue of Balochistan and allay people's feeling of deprivation.

"Balochistan is my top priority and I will bring this most neglected province into the mainstream," The Daily Times quoted Gilani, as saying.

Earlier, talking to media persons before leaving on a four-day visit to Germany and Britain, Gilani said his tour was aimed at strengthening ties with the two countries. (ANI)