Islamabad: Pledging to wage an all-out war for a "permanent end" to terrorism, Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf today (Jan 17, 2004) said the joint decision with India to resume the composite dialogue process should be pursued with "sincerity" and "good intentions" to find a peaceful solution to the Kashmir problem.

In an apparent reference to the Indian charge of cross-border terrorism against Pakistan, Musharraf said, "There are allegations being levelled against us with regard to Kashmir. To get out of this... we have to find a peaceful and justifiable solution to the Kashmir issue.

"Agreement reached should be pursued with good intentions and sincerity keeping in mind the aspirations of the people of Kashmir to take this process forward," he said.

The Pakistan President's address to the joint session of the National Assembly and the Senate began an hour behind schedule. Throughout the 35-minute address, the Opposition continuously shouted slogans.

Asserting that Pakistan was determined to root out terrorism permanently, Musharraf appealed to the people to wage a 'jihad' (holy war) against those who indulged in extremism and sectarian violence.

Maintaining that Pakistan has become a nuclear power, he said its capability in nuclear and missile technology was in its "national interest".

He said, "We are a responsible State and we will not allow proliferation" and added, "We should not only maintain but strengthen this capability. We are proud of our armed forces. They have always played a key role and will continue to play a key role in Pakistan's development."