President Musharraf

Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf has decided against declaring a state of emergency following a series of domestic crises.

Pakistan's information minister, Mohammed Ali Durrani, says General Musharraf rejected calls from some aides to curtail freedoms and strengthen military control to stabilize the country.

The minister says the president did not want to undermine upcoming elections.

Mr. Musharraf is struggling with a variety of domestic troubles, including resurgent pro-Taleban militants and widespread criticism over his suspension of the country's chief justice, Itfikhar Mohammed Chaudhry.

On Thursday, Pakistani military officials said at least 10 militants were killed in Pakistan's northwest. In South Waziristan, 16 paramilitary soldiers were reported kidnapped.

During a news conference in Washington Thursday, U.S. President George Bush said he is confident Pakistan will work with the United States to bring terrorist leaders to justice. Mr. Bush also said he hopes Pakistan will hold free and fair elections.