Mainstreaming of FATA key to prosperity: DG ISPR

RAWALPINDI: Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Friday reiterated that the mainstreaming of Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) is the key to prosperity, adding that it is time to be aware of ‘inimical forces’  creating uncertainties.

DG ISPR,  in his tweet,  said; “We are through with challenges of ‘clear’ phase after kinetic operations, ‘hold & build’ in progress. It’s our home, by working together we shall gradually bring back complete normalcy.”

Major General Asif Ghafoor further said  that the affected NWA traders would meet local civil-military and FATA secretariat representatives on April 22 to discuss their genuine issues and way forward, adding; "Economic rehabilitation of tribes takes priority. Mainstreaming of FATA remains key to their empowerment & prosperity.”

“Brave tribes of FATA have achieved peace & stability after lot of hardships & sacrifices. Restoration of normal life after kinetic operation is part of ‘clear-hold-build-transfer’ strategy. State including security forces is committed to rehabilitate the affected population.” DG ISPR added.

On April 11, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa had also stated that mainstreaming FATA and its merger with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) according to wishes of tribal people is ‘imperative’ for ‘peace and prosperity’ in the region.