President Pervez Musharraf [Images] on Tuesday declared that it is time Pakistan dealt with terrorism, as the country celebrated the 60^th year of its independence.

The embattled president termed terrorism as a "basic problem" that the country needed to confront.

"It is time that the entire nation rises against them," said Musharraf, referring to the Taliban and al-Qaeda cells operating in the north-western tribal regions bordering Afghanistan.

Terrorism was a serious threat to the peace, security and development of the nation, he said.

Musharraf added that the war against terrorism was being waged for Pakistan's sake, not for the US. "We are not confronting terrorism for America, we are doing it for ourselves," he said.

In an address titled "To all who care about Pakistan" telecast on the state-run PTV, Musharraf called on all voters to participate in the forthcoming general elections. He assured that the elections will be held in a free and fair manner.

"I urge all Pakistani citizens to get involved in the electoral process and become the instruments of enlightened moderation in their beloved country," he said.

Musharraf reacted angrily to reports claiming the Pakistan government is not doing enough to tackle terrorism.

Speaking about speculations that the US may launch air strikes against terror cells inside Pakistan, the general said "I am 200 per cent sure that these threats are neither at official nor at government level."

"I am fully confident and very sure that there will be no action across the border. If there is any action, it will be taken by Pakistani forces," he added.

Musharraf pledged that he will not allow any nation to violate Pakistan's sovereignty.

Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, who led a solemn flag-raising ceremony in the rainy capital, also assured that the forthcoming polls would be held in a free, fair and transparent manner.