Pakistan and Jordan Call for Quick Israeli Withdrawal From Lebanon

Pakistan and Jordan have called for a quick withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon and the creation of a Palestinian state.

Pakistan's President Pervez Musharraf and Jordanian King Abdullah spoke to reporters after holding talks Tuesday in Islamabad.

General Musharraf said it is crucial to restore Lebanon's sovereignty so that the root cause of the Middle East problems can be addressed.

King Abdullah said a just and lasting peace in the Middle East can only be achieved by establishing an independent Palestinian state, living side-by-side with Israel. He urged the two sides to resume peace negotiations.

Pakistan does not recognize Israel, and has condemned the Jewish state for attacking Lebanon after last month's kidnapping of two Israeli soldiers by Hezbollah fighters.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.