According to details, the army chief today visited Swat Tourism and Trade Festival 2015 on the concluding day.
He appreciated people of Swat for playing a vital role in support of security forces in revival of peace in the area and bringing festivals and tourism back to the valley, said the Inter-Services Public Relations in a statement.
The COAS said that dark-age of terrorism prevailed in Malakand Division till a few years back and it had become impossible to hold such functions in Swat.
Posted by ISPR Official on Monday, September 7, 2015
“But, the sacrifices and firm commitment of the valiant soldiers of Pakistan Army, civil forces and the local people eliminated terrorism from Malakand Division,” he said.
Expressing his hopes that tourism will flourish in the beautiful Swat valley, Gen Sharif assured that the military will always stand by people of Swat and help build capacity of civilian institutions.
He reiterated that terrorists will not be allowed to return to these areas and disrupt peace and stability of Swat.
Moreover, the COAS appreciated the organizers for arranging such an excellent event.
