China confident Pak can solve its problems

China said it was confident Pakistan could solve its problems, while India tempered its response to keep tensions low, saying it regretted Pakistan8217;s 8220;difficult times8221;. Japan, which recently halted a six-year anti-terrorism mission in the Indian Ocean, said Musharraf8217;s actions hindered the establishment of democracy.

Australian Foreign Minister Alexander Downer called for a rapid return to constitutional rule. 8220;Pakistan faces difficult security circumstances and a number of serious challenges to its stability. Australia8217;s strong view remains, however, that democracy and the rule of law are an essential part of achieving peace and stability,8221; he said.

Neighbour Afghanistan said it was concerned and wanted the country to return to normal quickly in the interests of its own stability. 8220;Security and stability in Pakistan directly affect the situation in Afghanistan and vice versa,8221; Foreign Ministry spokesman Sultan Ahmad Baheen said.