Clinton praises Musharraf for doing a fine job

ISLAMABAD: President Pervez Musharraf, seeking American investment in Pakistan, has come in for some praise from former US President Bill Clinton, who said that he was doing a "fine" job.

Clinton who along with Jordan's King Abdullah took part in a meeting addressed by Musharraf in New York to scout for American investment in Pakistan, briefly exchanged views with the Pakistani President.

"You are doing very fine work," Clinton was quoted as telling Musharraf by the Daily Times on Tuesday.

In his speech, Musharraf urged American businessmen to invest in Pakistan because of its "investment-friendly economic environment."

"We have turned around the economy and the country offers a level-playing field to all," he said in the address to US businessmen. He said Pakistan's GDP grew at seven per cent over the last four years, per capita income had doubled, foreign exchange reserves were healthy, exports had increased by 14 per cent and revenue grew by 20 per cent.

He said thanks to Pakistan's geo-strategic location, it was set to become a hub of trade and an energy corridor. "Foreign investors are making money in Pakistan," he added.

Speaking on the occasion, President of Coca-Cola International Muhtar Kent said Pakistan was the fastest-growing and best-performing economy in Asia. He said the overall environment in Pakistan was business-friendly.