COAS hails youth of Fata on merger with KP

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Monday congratulated youth of erstwhile Fata on the successful and historic merger of tribal areas into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while meeting with the representatives of Fata Youth Jirga, the ISPR said.

The COAS commended motivation and passion of the youth in realisation of this merger, and said that the mainstreaming shall bring enduring peace, stability and socio-economic development of the long-neglected and terrorism rid area.

“The state is determined to root out extremism and terrorism for which youth has a great role to play. Focus on your peaceful endeavours, participate in political and democratic activities. We have achieved peace at a very high cost of blood and national exchequer and we shall never let it lose,” the COAS said.

The COAS lauded youth for their determination and support to Pakistan Army in the fight against terrorism. He valued their views regarding future of Pakistan. He said that achievements through sacrifices of brave tribals are being consolidated while we transit from relative stability to enduring peace. The COAS also shared his engagement with Afghan leadership for enhanced cooperation and security measures along Pak-Afghan border. He advised the youth to continue playing their role towards peace and progress of Pakistan as they are the future leaders.

The Jirga acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan Army’s efforts for bringing back peace, stability and socio-economic development in the area. They also acknowledged COAS’s special interest towards mainstreaming the area.