Washington, June 20: The issue of cross-border terrorism, growing influence of Islamic fundamentalism in Pakistan and the use of the country's border areas by resurgent Taliban forces are expected to dominate the talks between US President George W Bush and his Pakistaini counterpart Pervez Musharraf. "US officials remain deeply concerned about Pakistan's support for Islamic militants fighting Indian forces in Kashmir and the use of Pakistan's border areas by resurgent Taliban forces fighting the US-backed government in Afghanistan," the Washington Post reported. "Both topics are likely to figure prominently in talks between Musharraf and President Bush scheduled for Tuesday at camp David," the Daily said.


The report said the growth of Islamic fundamentalism exerting its influence on the secular society of Pakistan and reshaping the country along religious lines is also expected to be taken up during the talks. "Emboldened by an unexpectedly strong sowing in national elections last fall, Islamic fundamentalists are shaping up their efforts to reshape Pakistan along religious lines, alarming moderate Pakistanis and casting doubt on President Pervez Musharraf's ability--or willingness--to curb the fundamentalists' power." "The growing strength of the religious alliance," said the Post, "is of no small concern to the united states," which considers Pakistan a frontline ally in the war on terrorism.

Bureau Report