Times Online
Attend a special evening hosted by Mike Atherton

On his feelings:
I am going with the satisfaction that whatever I could do for this nation, for the people, I did it with all my honesty and integrity.
I am also a human being. It is possible I might have committed mistakes, but I hope that this nation and the people will know those mistakes with this belief - that my intentions were true.
Now I am satisfied, but at the same time I am sad - and in pain as well - that Pakistan is sliding down very fast. This is my heartfelt sorrow, I am very sad. And I hope that the government will think about the people's problems and will make efforts to improve things.
There are lots of my supporters and well-wishers, and there are lots of opinion polls, that say I should stay in power. I know that there are many well-wishers and supporters that were telling me to do something else, but I would like to tell them, please accept this truthful decision for the nation and in the people's interest.
On his opponents:
Some elements have given preface to their own interests rather than the nation. False allegations were filed against me and they tried to turn truth into lies and they tried to deceive the people.
They said that during the last nine years our economic problems and electricity shortages were due to our policies. It is absolutely wrong and deception for the country.
They never realised that they could be successful against me, but they never thought how detrimental it would be for the country.
On his achievements:
On the map of the world, Pakistan is now an important country, by the grace of Allah.
I am also pleased to say that I am leaving a vibrant media and hope that the media will enjoy the same level and freedom and independence with responsibility.
On the threat of impeachment:
To impeach is parliament's prerogative and to answer it is my right. I believe in myself and I have faith in my god, Allah, that no charge sheet can stand against me. Not a single charge can be proved against me because I never thought about my own being. Whatever I did was Pakistan first. That was my motto.
Whether I win or lose, the nation will lose. The honour and dignity of the country will be affected and in my view, the honour of the office of president will also be affected
On his decision to resign:
After viewing the situation and consulting legal advisers and political allies, with their advice I have decided to resign. My resignation will go to the speaker of the National Assembly today.
I don’t want anything from anybody. I have no interest. I leave my future in the hands of the nation and people.
Finally, goodbye to Pakistan. God protect Pakistan. God protect you, Pakistan forever. Long live Pakistan.
Industry sectors news at a glance. Interactive heatmap, video and podcast
Everything the Business Traveller needs to know to make a better trip
Get ready for the winter sports season, with our resort guides and snow reports
We are backing British business, what is the confidence of the nation and what businesses are succeeding?
Growing demand for energy, oil that is harder to reach and the rise of carbon dioxide emissions. We examine the energy challenge
With rail travel in Europe on the rise, we review the benefits of travelling by train
In this special section we explore new food trends to help improve your dinner party and impress guests
Enjoy further reading from Travel to Fashion, Business to Sport, discover more
Shortcuts to help you find sections and articles
1998
£47,955
12 months for the price of 11 and a 5% discount.
Offer ends 31/11/09
Check your free Experian credit report before applying
Car Insurance
£100,000
Barnardos
UK
PwC’s Consulting practice helps businesses of all shapes and sizes work smarter and grow faster
PwC
£37,000
Department for Culture, Media and Sport
London
Currently £36,285
Department for Culture, Media and Sport
London
Moments from Battersea Park.
For sale with Winkworth
Find out about shared ownership.
See your free Experian credit report beforehand
Includes flights, accommodation with room upgrades, transfers city tours in Hong Kong and Bangkok.
PremierHolidays.co.uk
For your ultimate tailor-made ski holiday, click here
Get covered on your travels with a superb range of policies at great prices. Visit InsureandGo.com
World Class Golf, Spa and preferential Beach Club. Private estate overlooking West Coast
Villas from £275 per night inclusive of Golf
Contact our advertising team for advertising and sponsorship in Times Online, The Times and The Sunday Times, or place your advertisement.
Times Online Services: Dating | Jobs | Property Search | Used Cars | Holidays | Births, Marriages, Deaths | Subscriptions | E-paper
News International associated websites: Globrix Property Search | Milkround
Copyright 2009 Times Newspapers Ltd.
This service is provided on Times Newspapers' standard Terms and Conditions. Please read our Privacy Policy.To inquire about a licence to reproduce material from Times Online, The Times or The Sunday Times, click here.This website is published by a member of the News International Group. News International Limited, 1 Virginia St, London E98 1XY, is the holding company for the News International group and is registered in England No 81701. VAT number GB 243 8054 69.