The United States has praised former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf as a committed partner in the fight against terrorism, hours after the Pakistani leader announced his resignation.

A White House spokesman (Gordon Johndroe) says President Bush remains committed to a strong Pakistan that strengthens democracy and fights terror. He said Washington will continue to work with Pakistan's government on the economic, political and security challenges it faces.

U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice also praised Mr. Musharraf for what she called his "critical choice" to join the fight against al-Qaida and Taliban militants.

Pakistan's historic rival, India called the resignation an internal matter for Pakistan. But some Indian officials expressed concern that Mr. Musharraf's resignation could leave a power vacuum.

In Afghanistan, a foreign ministry spokesman (Sultan Ahmad Baheen) said his country is hopeful the resignation will help strengthen democracy in the neighboring country.