Musharraf calls for harmonious coalition

ISLAMABAD, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf on Wednesday emphasized the need for harmonious coalition in the interest of peaceful governance, development and progress of Pakistan, a statement issued by the Foreign Office said.

Musharraf made the remarks when he met with U.S. Congressman Elton Gallegly in Rawalpindi on Wednesday and discussed with him on Pakistan-U.S. relations and recent political developments in the country including the Feb. 18 elections.

Musharraf highlighted the importance of the Feb. 18 elections and called for harmonious coalition in the interest of the country.

He underlined Pakistan's commitment to a closer and broad-based relationship with the U.S. based on commonality of interests and enhancement of areas of agreement, said the statement.

Musharraf said that Pakistan had faced many challenges and has always come out well. The future looked better with successes in the fight against terrorism, he said.