Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif said that the days of peace and prosperity have begun and the terrorists will not be allowed to come back. This, he said, became possible because of the Pakistan Army.
He said, “the Pakistan Army is always ready for the internal and external defence of the country as peace has been restored in Swat after the operation.”
Addressing the recreational festival held in Kalam, he congratulated the people on the restoration of recreational activities in the area. The army chief said that peace had been established in Swat after the successful operation.
A large number of tourists visited the recreational festival on the third day. During the festival, different sporting events were organised in which local players participated.
Gen Raheel appreciated the people of Swat for playing a vital role in support of the security forces for the revival of peace in the area and for bringing festivals and tourism back to the valley. the army chief said the terrorists could not come back to Swat again.
The COAS said that the dark age of terrorism prevailed in the Malakand Division till a few years back and it had become impossible to hold such functions in Swat. But the sacrifices and firm commitment of the valiant soldiers of the Pakistan Army, civil forces and the local people has eliminated terrorism from Malakand Division.
Expressing the hope that tourism will flourish in the beautiful land of Swat, the COAS assured that the army will always stand by the people of Swat and help build the capacity of civilian institutions. He reiterated that the terrorists will not be allowed to return to these areas and disrupt the peace and stability of Swat. the COAS appreciated the organisers for arranging such an excellent event. The army chief also announced a Rs 2.5 million grant for the organisers of the festival. – Sabah