US President telephones President Zardari; reiterates support for democracy in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: US President Barack Obama telephoned President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday evening and held a detailed conversation covering several important subjects. Both Presidents welcomed the substantial progress made at the recently concluded Third Round of the Strategic Dialogue and underscored the importance of forging a comprehensive partnership between the US and Pakistan.
President Obama in particular reiterated his strong support for democracy in Pakistan and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s accomplishments in numerous fields.
President Obama invited President Zardari to visit the US.  President Zardari thanking President Obama for the invitation said he was also looking forward to the visit of President Obama in the early part of 2011 to Pakistan.The two Presidents exchanged views on regional matters and agreed on the need to enhance consultations and cooperation at all levels to promote peace, development and stability in the region as well as to achieve success in the fight against extremism and terrorism.President Zardari thanked President Obama for the strong expression of support for Pakistan, the democratic forces and progress and prosperity of the Pakistani people – App