Pakistan PM urges "comprehensive" security strategy

By Zeeshan Haider

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Pakistan backs the U.S.-led campaign against terrorism but a broad approach that includes political solutions is needed to tackle the problem, Pakistan's new prime minister told U.S. President George W. Bush.

Two U.S. envoys held talks with Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani on Wednesday, a day after he was sworn in to lead a government set on re-evaluating policy on terrorism.

Musharraf, a former general who seized power in a 1999 coup, has been a staunch U.S. ally since the September 11 attacks on the United States but he has become increasingly isolated after his allies suffered defeat in February 18 parliamentary elections.

Analysts say the United States wants to ensure the new coalition government maintains Musharraf's commitment to tackling militants.

Some coalition leaders have spoken of the need to hold talks with militants and that has raised questions about Pakistan's security strategy, especially with Musharraf's power ebbing.

Bush telephoned Gilani shortly after he was sworn in.

"Pakistan would continue to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations since it is in Pakistan's own national interest," Gilani told Bush, according to a government statement obtained on Wednesday.

"However, he said that a comprehensive approach is required in this regard, specially combining a political approach with development programmes," the government said.