Country’s economy, security improved after Zarb-e-Azb: COAS

General Raheel Sharif inaugurates the first Fata Youth Festival

Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif (COAS) said on Wednesday the country’s security had improved significantly after the launch of Operation Zarb-e-Azb, and the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other economic achievements were its dividends.

Speaking after inaugurating the first Fata Youth Festival, General Raheel said the wide participation of people from the tribal agencies was a testimony that peace was returning in the region, the ISPR said.

#Op Z-e-A has improved security of the country significantly.Eco activity incl CPEC came as dividend.Peace journey to continue-#COAS

— Gen(R) Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) December 23, 2015

According to the military's media wing, the army chief said a cricket stadium in Khyber Agency, and a sports complex in North Waziristan will also be built among other sports facilities.

A cricket stadium will be built in Khyber Agency & a sports Complex in N.Waziristan.More sports facilities 2 follow pic.twitter.com/X2chgOTEZm

— Gen(R) Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) December 23, 2015

FATA youth fest opened by #COAS at Psr with wide participation bears testimony to peace returning.Promising youth pic.twitter.com/fGzIJm6Nu4

— Gen(R) Asim Saleem Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) December 23, 2015

CJCSC appreciates armed forces' efforts in Zarb-e-Azb

Earlier on Tuesday, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Rashad Mahmood appreciated the efforts of the armed forces for securing the confidence of people by successfully fighting terrorism.

The military offensive against terrorists in the tribal belt was initiated in June 2014.