“We are in most difficult phase of operation,” says army chief

He was chairing a special provincial Apex Committee meeting of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and FATA was held here today at the Corps HQ.

COAS said that after successfully evicting terrorists form their sanctuaries and restoring writ of the state, we are in the most difficult phase of the operation; physically rebuilding the war-damaged areas, resettling of IDPs and eventually establishing an administrative system that focuses on the needs and aspirations of the people.

“Together, InshaAllah, with our tribal brethren we shall ensure that terrorists and their facilitators are never allowed to return to these areas”, COAS emphasized.

The meeting reviewed the progress of ongoing military operations including IBOs with special focus on return of Temporarily Displaced Persons (TDPs). Governor, Chief Minister KPK, COAS, Peshawar Corps Commander, senior provincial and FATA Secretariat officials attended the meeting.

COAS, while paying rich tributes to the resilience and sacrifices of the people of FATA and KPK said “With unflinching resolve and courage, our proud tribesmen of FATA and people of KPK stood up to atrocities of the terrorists, pushed them back and marginalized them in the society,” which deserves highest of accolades.

COAS vowed to ensure a timely and dignified return of TDPs to resettle them in their respective homes. He reiterated his commitment with tribal brethren, to rebuild the area and revive entire socio-economic infrastructure. He emphasized on all concerned to expedite the resettlement process and meet time lines by removing impediments which are causing delay in timely completion of the work.

The Governor and Chief Minister KPK appreciated the whole hearted support of Pakistan Army and reiterated the resolve of FATA and the provincial government to rid the province of terrorism and extremism and pave way for development and well being of the people.