US President George W. Bush has said Pakistan is a "strong ally" in the fight against terrorism and committed to securing its border with Afghanistan.
Emerging with Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani from their meeting at the White House yesterday, Bush also praised Gilani for making a "very strong commitment" to securing the dangerous border region.
"After all, Pakistan is a strong ally and a vibrant democracy," the president said. "The United States supports the democracy and supports the sovereignty of Pakistan."
"Of course we talked about the common threat we face, extremists who are very dangerous people," he added.
Gilani assured the people of the United States that a majority of Pakistanis "want the peace in the world," and "want to cooperate" with the United States.
Meanwhile, the White House said Bush has offered $115 million in food aid to Pakistan.
"The president offered $ 115 million over two years in food aid and $ 42.5 million of that will be available over the next six to nine months," White House spokeswoman Dana Perino told reporters.
