War against militants in North Waziristan is being won: Nawaz

Nawaz Sharif becomes first elected prime minister to visit North Waziristan after US-led war on terror began in 2001

MIRAMSHAH: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif declared on Thursday that the war against militants in the tribal areas is being won.

The premier, accompanied by federal ministers, arrived in Miramshah on Monday to boost the morale of troops taking part in Operation Zarb-e-Azb and to be briefed on the progress of the operation.

Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif – who had earlier arrived in the agency to spend Eidul Azha with soldiers - welcomed the premier to the frontline.

"This is war is being won. This war, under Gen Raheel’s leadership, will make Pakistan successful,” said Nawaz, while expressing hope for Pakistan to become a peaceful country.

The army launched Operation Zarb-e-Azb on June 15 this year against foreign and local terrorists outfits operating from the tribal areas.

“With the presentation that was given to me by the army chief, I can tell how difficult this operation is ... this is a war in which the enemy cannot be seen,” said the prime minister.

"I thank you and congratulate you. Gen Raheel thanks you and congratulates you … in fact, the whole country congratulates you wholeheartedly,” the premier said, while thanking the troops for being honouring him with their presence.

Earlier, the PM was given a detailed briefing on all the targets achieved since the beginning of the operation.

The premier was informed about the crucial role played by Pakistan Air Force and Special Service Group in the operation.

The premier was accompanied by Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Mehtab Abbasi and Minister for States and Frontier Regions (Safron) Abdul Qadir Baloch.

Addressing IDPs

PM Nawaz further added that the government and armed forces will not rest till the IDPs return to their homes safely.

Flanked by the army chief while addressing people at a relief camp in Baka Khel, the premier said, “IDPs left their homes for the safety of Pakistan and we know you [IDPs] are passing through a difficult time.”

Further, the premier vowed to ensure development in the regions where the operation is ongoing. He said roads will be built and towns will be developed in the areas.



Correction: An earlier version of this story erroneously stated that Nawaz Sharif is the first elected prime minister to have visited North Waziristan. The error is regretted.