"In our stability lies the world's security," he said.

Zardari also touched on recent tensions between Islamabad and Washington following a stepped-up U.S. campaign of attacks on militant targets in parts of Pakistan. Al Qaeda and Taliban fighters have been attacking U.S. and allied troops in Afghanistan from havens in western Pakistan.

"Violating our nation's sovereignty is not helpful in eliminating the terrorist menace. Indeed this could have the opposite effect," he said, without mentioning the United States by name.

Zardari, who held talks with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday, vowed to forge better ties with India and said that would help reduce militancy. He also pledged to work closely with Afghanistan and the NATO forces fighting there.