Muslims feel targetted

Speaking at a dinner hosted by the US Chamber of Commerce in New York, Musharraf also said he remained undecided as to when he may step down as Pakistani army chief, as he had earlier promised to do by yearend.

"Muslims today are feeling as if Islam as a religion is being targetted. This needs to be undone," Musharraf said.

"I think the United States has to concentrate on the resolution of political disputes throughout the world," he said, identifying settlement of the Palestinian issue as key to ensuring global stability.

He also stressed the need for US help in combatting poverty and illiteracy, which he described as issues that "form the core of causes of terrorism."

A key US ally in the global war on terror, Musharraf said Pakistan was committed to ridding the country of terrorist groups and their supporters.

"We will end terrorism and the al-Qaeda presence in Pakistan," he pledged.

Questioned as to when he may resign his military post, the president said his top priority was ensuring continuity for crucial policies, including social and economic reforms, as well as the fight against terror.

"What worries me is their future," he said. "And while I haven't decided whether I'm going to remove my uniform or not, it doesn't cause concern. I'll take a decision in a few months. I haven't decided as yet."

Musharraf, who seized power in a bloodless coup in October 1999, promised last December to leave the army by the end of 2004 as part of a deal with opposition lawmakers that would allow him to remain president through 2007.

Opposition parties campaigning to end military rule have argued that reneging on the promise would amount to a violation of the constitution.

Musharraf was due to meet Wednesday with US President George W. Bush on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

During their talks, Musharraf is expected to urge Washington to take a larger behind-the-scenes role in settling Pakistan's bitter dispute with India over the disputed region of Kashmir.