WASHINGTON, Aug 18: The US administration did not do much to save Pervez Musharraf but in their reactions on Monday US leaders showed more sympathy for him than they had shown to previous strongmen after they were dethroned.

“President Bush appreciates President Musharraf’s efforts in the democratic transition of Pakistan as well as his commitment to fighting Al Qaeda and extremist groups,” said a White House spokesman while responding to Mr Musharraf’s resignation.

US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice was more generous, telling the media that Mr Musharraf “has our deep gratitude” for taking on the terrorists.

“President Musharraf has been a friend to the United States and one of the world’s most committed partners in the war against terrorism and extremism,” she said.

Ms Rice recalled that after Sept 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the US soil, President Musharraf made the critical choice to join the fight against Al Qaida, the Taliban, and other extremist groups.

But she said that such groups also threaten the peace and security of Pakistan, its neighbours, and partners throughout the world.

“For this, he has our deep gratitude,” she said.

This was much more than the then US leaders had said about US-backed strongmen like Ferdinand Marcos of the Philippines or the Shah of Iran when they were ousted.

But both Ms Rice and US National Security Council spokesman Gordon Johndroe also emphasised in their statements the US desire to work with the new democratic government in Pakistan.

“President Bush is committed to a strong Pakistan that continues its efforts to strengthen democracy and fight terror,” said Mr Johndroe.

“President Bush looks forward to working with the government of Pakistan on the economic, political and security challenges they face.”

Ms Rice not only stressed the US desire to work with the new Pakistani government but also reminded them that Washington had played a key role in making it possible for them to win the Feb 18 elections.

“We strongly support the democratically elected civilian government in its desire to modernise Pakistan and build democratic institutions,” she said.

“The United States supported the transition to democratic government in Pakistan and respects the results of the election. We believe that respect for the democratic and constitutional processes in that country is fundamental to Pakistan’s future and its fight against terrorism.”

Ms Rice urged Pakistan’s new leaders to redouble their focus on the country’s future and its most urgent needs, including stemming the growth of extremism, addressing food and energy shortages, and improving economic stability.

“The United States will help with these efforts to see Pakistan reach its goal of becoming a stable, prosperous, democratic, modern, Muslim nation,” she said.