COAS kisses the national flag presented by the paratroopers at the Shandur polo festival in Chitral. PHOTO: INP
CHITRAL/ ISLAMABAD: Army chief General Raheel Sharif on Sunday said that though terrorists and their facilitators are on the run the success of ongoing counter-terror operations depends on the continued support of the nation, especially the youth.
General Raheel was speaking at the Shandur Festival in Chitral. “I can assure you that terrorists and their facilitators are on the run. The day is not far away when our beloved nation will be recognised because of its prosperity and peace and stability in the world,” read the transcript of his speech released by the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations.
Gen Raheel pointed out that peace in the country was largely won through countless sacrifices of the people and Pakistan military with Operation Zarb-e-Azb an extension of this spirit and determination. He added that the day was not far when terrorism will be rooted out of the country and peace will be restored.
“Our journey to establish durable peace will continue with the same vigour,” he said, adding that the continued success of this endeavour hinges on the support of the nation, particularly the youth.
Speaking about the Shandur Festival, Gen Raheel said that it was made possible through sacrifices of the nation and the armed forces that peace has returned to the area.
He added that the event will not only the event will not only promote tourism in the area at the national and international levels but also sends a clear message to the terrorists that despite their attacks, the people continue their with their traditions.
“Your attendance in great numbers in this festival is laudable and depictive of a resilient nation,” the army chief said.
“This colourful festival not only reflects our bright future but also shows Pakistan’s path towards achieving peace and stability.”
He also acknowledged that the people of Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan have recently gone through some challenging times since their region was not only remote, but has been affected by natural disasters.
“As you are well aware, soldiers of Pakistan army and FC as well as doctors have fully supported you in these testing times,” General Raheel said.
He added that the army has always stood by the people under all circumstances. “We will not hesitate from any sacrifice, be it for the defence of our nation or the people,” he assured the audience.
Later, the army chief congratulated the event’s organisers including the army, FC, Chitral Scouts and other law enforcement agencies for successfully holding a peaceful festival.
A paragliding session from over 18,000 feet was staged by SSG Commandos of the army, a first for the event.
Gen Raheel was presented with an overcoat by Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Hafizur Rehman, before distributing prizes among players both from G-B and Chitral.
The government of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and G-B had worked hard to arrange the festival after a gap of four years. The three-day Shandur festival had kicked off on Friday with a large number of people from Chitral and G-B as well as foreigners showing up to see the festival’s main event, the polo tournament.
Published in The Express Tribune, August 1st, 2016.
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