ISLAMABAD - Turkish President Abdullah Gul met his Pakistani counterpart Pervez Musharraf on Monday in Islamabad.
Gul was welcomed with full military honors at Presidential Palace where the two leaders held a joint press conference after the meeting.
"Despite certain hardships that Pakistan has been facing, we respect the country`s determination for swift passage to democracy and we acknowledge and understand Pakistan`s realities," Gul said.
"I would also like to congratulate President Musharraf on his second term in office, and this time as a civilian leader," Gul said.
Gul praised Pakistan`s resolute efforts in fight against terrorism and radicalism, saying that endeavour by democratic institutions would strengthen Pakistan`s hand on this issue.
"Terrorism is threatening all humankind, and governments and nations should struggle in unison to overcome this threat," Gul said.
"Our mutual goal is to help maintain an international environment where peace, prosperity, welfare and cooperation prevail," Gul said.