Democracy best to counter terror: PM

"We are not lobbying for the President to either retain office or leave the office," Congressman Adam B Schiff told a group of journalists at an informal discussion. US Representative Allyson Y Schwarts also spoke in the question-answer session after they met President Musharraf, political leaders and members of the parliament.

Asked about the impression that the US legislators are in Pakistan to lobby for the President and to oppose the restoration of the Chief Justice, Congressman Adam B Schiff said, "No. That is not. We certainly had been getting a feedback from the people we met on the subject but we are neutral." "But that is not really the focus of our meetings or our advocacy," the Congressmen said.

To another question on the same issue, he said, "We are not here for lobbying for the chief justice. We are not here to lobby for the President.

To a question about the American support to military dictators in Pakistan, he said, "We are mindful of the perception that many Pakistanis have and not without some reasons that the US has not been always consistent in our advocacy of democracy and are very mindful of that". He added, "We are very committed to democratic process here in Pakistan. We would like to see democracy here, indefinitely not one that will last period of years and be overthrown for period of years and restored after period of years". "We hope that this time goes down in Pakistani history as the time when democracy took firm roots never to be overthrown again, Mr Schiff said.

Talking about his meetings in Pakistan, he said that the lawmakers talked about the importance of strong legislative branch of the government and it is important to have important to fell they are empowered.

He said they shared their concern about terrorism, militancy, and that "how we can together be safe, the major economic issues facing across the world, for our community, how to go forward and share ideas as we are strong allies of the future". He said the US lawmakers had the opportunity to have direct conversation with members of parliament and that the discussions were very fruitful.

The Congressman said they are aware of the judicial debate that is going on within the two major parties. "We certainly not here as part of any kind of part of efforts to influence the decision on the reinstatement or not reinstatement of the chief justice. We have heard a number of rumours. At one point, I heard a rumour that I am John Negroponte".

Schiff said the lawmakers have no interest in decisions rather "our interest is in the democratic changes that are taking place here. I am here for constructive assistance and high interest in parliamentary system".