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Zardari prepares to be sworn in as Pakistan president

Asif Ali Zardari is to be sworn in as Pakistan's president on Monday, an official said.

  • Agencies
  • Published: 17:13 September 7, 2008
  • Gulf News

Islamabad: Asif Ali Zardari is to be sworn in as Pakistan's president on Monday, an official said.

In a short television address following the result of Saturday's poll, Zardari said his triumph was a victory for democracy.

Zardari will become Pakistan's 14th president, gaining wide powers, including the right to dismiss governments and appoint leaders of the military.

"The decision will be taken shortly and the swearing in ceremony is expected to take place probably on Monday," said PPP spokesman Farhatullah Babar.

In Washington, White House spokesman Gordon Johndroe said US President George W. Bush "looks forward to working with him ... and the government of Pakistan on issues important to both countries."

Those include "counterterrorism and making sure Pakistan has a stable and secure economy," he added.

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