Anti-terror pact on the cards

General Musharraf, the first Pakistani head of state to visit Australia, will hold extensive talks with Prime Minister John Howard and other cabinet officials in Canberra on Tuesday before wrapping up his tour in Sydney Wednesday and Thursday.

He arrived at the head of a large delegation in Canberra just as a downpour began.

The focal point of the visit will be the signing of an agreement on information-sharing and other cooperation in the fight against international terrorism, Australian officials said. Trade issues are also expected to figure prominently.

Before Musharraf's arrival, Howard praised his "courageous and resolute" role in fighting terror networks such as al-Qaeda, as well as his strong personal commitment to improving relations between Pakistan and India.

"Pakistan is a key ally for Australi-a in the war on terror and has played a pivotal role in efforts to dismantle global terrorist networks such as al-Qaeda," he said.

Pakistan has lost scores of soldiers in military operations aimed at crushing al-Qaeda-linked insurgents who operate in the tribal areas separating Pakistan and Afghan-istan.

al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden is believed hiding in the tribal areas and last month Pakistan captured Abu Farraj al-Libbi, believed to be the number three leader of the group.

But Canberra remains concerned about the links between al-Qaeda or other Pakistan-based militant movements and Islamic radicals in Southeast Asia, including Australia.

Three out of four suspects currently charged with or facing trial in Australia for terrorism offences are alleged to have obtained terrorist training in Pakistan.

The counter-terrorism accord due to be signed Tuesday is expected to include stepped up communications on other Australians suspected of involvement in the training camps.