US anti-terror bill could hurt ties with Pakistan: Musharraf

The new US anti-terror legislation could affect the strategic partnership between Pakistan and America, said President Pervez Musharraf.

Islamabad, Aug 1 : The new US anti-terror legislation could affect the strategic partnership between Pakistan and America, said President Pervez Musharraf.

"Pakistan values its relations with the US in different fields. However, Pakistan has reservations on the bill passed by Congress. US authorities should review it," Musharraf said.

In a 45-minute meeting with the new US Ambassador to Pakistan, Anne Patterson, who called on Musharraf to present her credentials, Musharraf rejected remarks made by US officials that American forces could strike against terrorists safe haven in Pakistan.

He said the Pakistan Army is fully capable of coping with militants in the tribal areas and will not allow any terrorist group to establish safe haven in the areas bordering Afghanistan.

Patterson conveyed a message from US President George Bush to Musharraf, renewing his commitment to strong relations and strategic partnership between the two countries.

Bush lauded Pakistan's role in fighting terrorism and stressed the need to intensify the collaboration, Patterson added.

The Daily Times quoted Patterson as saying that the US was keen on strong economic, trade, defence and military relations with Pakistan.

ANI