ISLAMABAD, MARCH 15, SPA -- Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro has paid tributes to the members of his cabinet and said the interim government performed its prime task of holding general elections in a befitting way, said an official statement. Speaking at a farewell reception he hosted for his cabinet, he said contrary to the expectations of many, the parliamentary elections were held in a free, fair and transparent and peaceful manner. The world community is holding Pakistan in high esteem because of this step of the caretaker government, Soomro said. The reception was attended by majority of the cabinet members besides high ranking government officials. Soomro termed his working with the cabinet an enriching experience which was dedicated, participative and committed. He said the challenges, which he and his team of cabinet faced in a short span of time, were handled amicably. Soomro particularly mentioned the security threats to Pakistan. He said Pakistan at present was passing through a challenging phase and offered his best wishes for the next government.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/536582