WASHINGTON, Dec. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. President George W. Bush said Saturday he looks forward to working closely with the Pakistani president for next four years.
Bush met President Pervez Musharraf at the White House and after a 50-minute meeting he also urged the Pakistani leader to play a role in resolving the Palestinian dispute.
"A person with whom I've worked very closely over the past four years, a person with whom I look forward to working closely over the next four years," said Bush about Musharraf.
"And I look forward to working with this world leader on that important issue," said Bush while reiterating his commitment to the creation of a Palestinian state.
Bush's endorsement gives Musharraf a new strength in his fight against the opposition which wants him to leave the army by Dec. 31.
The army has ruled Pakistan for more than half of its 57 years of independence and leaving the army could weaken Musharraf's position and may ultimately cause him to step down.
