He said that while moral and diplomatic support to the Kahsmiris would continue, he wanted better relations with India. He noted that jointly Pakistan and India can change the bleak scenario in which South Asia finds itself. Musharraf also said that he was interested in ``result-oriented dialogue'' with India.

Though he talked about a ``military de-escalation'' along the international borders with India, he made no such offer with regard to the Line of Control (LoC). Addressing the nation in a much-awaited speech in which he outlined his administration's policies, General Musharraf announced the establishment of a National Security Council which would be the supreme decision-making body of the country, and a set of aims andobjectives under which his government would function.

General Musharraf said in a televised address that he assumed control of the country in ``extremely unusual circumstances not of my making,'' and added that the country was at the brink of collapse, but would ``rise again'' under his leadership.

Musharraf said that the democracy being practised in Pakistan was not the ``essence of democracy'' and added that he would create conditions under which true democracy will flourish. ``I promise you I will,'' said the Pakistan Chief Executive.

Musharraf took pains to explain the country was not under martial law. ``I sacrificed the limb (Constitution) to save the body (the nation),'' he argued, assuring that he would stay no longer than was necessary to bring back Pakistan to the path of progress.

His government's objectives, according to Musharraf, were national confidence, strengthening the federation, reviving the economy, improving law and order, de-politicising State institutions, devolution of powersand swift accountability. Musharraf said that the National Security Council would be headed by him and comprise the air force and navy chiefs and experts of legal, finance, foreign affairs and national affairs.

In addition, a ``think tank of experts'' would assist the council in addition to the cabinet of ministers. At the provincial level, governors with small cabinets would be appointed. He said that efforts would be made to enhance confidence in the Pakistan economy. For this, there will be stability in economic policies, the introduction of pragmatic tax reforms, and a move to nab tax and loan defaulters. In foreign affairs, while Musharraf noted the importance of relations with the Muslim world, there was a definitive shift on Afghanistan: ``We will strive for a just solution in Afghanistan with a truly representative government in Kabul.''

The general also announced his commitment to relations with China and the West. The Chief Executive said that Pakistan would continue to pursue nuclear andmissile restraint and at the same time remain sensitive to global nuclear disarmament.

General Musharraf was silent on the issue of elections or on the time-frame he had in mind for the changes that he proposed to bring.

General Musharraf said that he believed in freedom of the press. He hinted that he might allow the functioning of private radio and television news channels, as part of his desire to keep the press free.

The speech of the Pakistan Chief Executive was well received all over the country although concerns were raised over the absence of any commitment or time-table for the return to democratic rule. While many Pakistanis appreciated the broad policy framework which Musharraf announced, there were a number of questions that his speech left unanswered. It is expected that the next step would be the announcement of names to the National Security Council, the think tank of advisors, the cabinet and the provincial governments. This should happen within the next few days, sayobservers.

COUP UPDATE