Musharraf-Sulejman Pledge to enhance Political-Economic Ties
By Fatima Sohail - Pakistan Times Staff Correspondent

ISLAMABAD: President General Pervez Musharraf and his Bosnian counterpart Sulejman Tihic Tuesday held exclusive talks on enhancing bilateral political and economic relations.

The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest to both countries including the fight against terrorism, Pakistan-India peace process, the situation in Afghanistan and Iraq.

They also discussed related bilateral matters including subjects of the resumption of Pakistan-India dialogue, reconstruction in Afghanistan, situation in Iraq and revitalization of OIC.

Bilateral Ties

Both the leaders expressed the desire to explore ways and means to strengthen bilateral ties to the mutual benefit of two countries.

President Musharraf welcomed the Bosnian leader to Pakistan and expressed the hope that his visit would help give new depth to bilateral cooperation in various
fields.

The Bosnian President will address a gathering of Pakistan investors and business community to identify bilateral trade relations and to generate flow of investments in both the countries.

Warm Reception

Earlier, President Sulejman Tihic of Bosnia and Herzegovina was accorded a warm welcome Tuesday here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr at a formal ceremony.

President General Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Ch. Shujaat Hussain received the Bosnian leader on his arrival.

A contingent drawn from three services presented salute to the Bosnian President, as he stood on the dais along with Pakistani leaders.

The national anthems of the two countries were played. Later, the visiting leader reviewed guard of honour.

Members of the Federal Cabinet, Chairman joint chiefs of the staff committee and Services Chiefs were introduced to the distinguished guest.

Sulejman Tihic introduced members of his delegation to the President and the Prime Minister.

Arrival in Pakistan

Sindh Bureau of 'Pakistan Times' adds from Karachi: President of Bosnia and Herzegovina Sulejman Tihic arrived Karachi today, Tuesday at the start of four-day official visit to Pakistan.

Provincial minister for population and welfare Syed Ali Bux received the Bosnian president at Quaid-e-Azam International Air Port. President Suleiman Tihic isaccompanied by Foreign Minister Malden Ivanic and other senior officials.

Visits Quaid’s Mausoleum

While in Karachi, President Sulejman Tihic visited the Quaid’s Mausoleum of the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The Bosnian President placed floral wreath on Mazar-e-Quaid and offered Fateha. Later on he wrote his views in the visitors book.

Pakistan-Bosnia sign Accords

Pakistan and Bosnia Tuesday signed agreements on holding regular bilateral consultations between their ministries of foreign affairs and avoidance of double taxation for increased economic and trade cooperation.

President General Pervez Musharraf and his Bosnian counterpart Sulejman Tihic oversaw signing of the agreements at the Aiwan-e-Sadr [Presidential Palace] in the capital.

Foreign Minister Khurshid Kasuri and his Bosnian counterpart Mladen Ivanic signed the agreements.●