ISLAMABAD, JAN 27 (DNA) – Islamabad Chamber of Small Traders (ICST) on Sunday lauded the role of armed forces in eradicating terrorism and rebuilding militancy-hit areas.

The sacrifices of Army has changed the situation in FATA and elsewhere to an extent that local and foreign businessmen have started exploring opportunities in these regions which is very heartening, it said.

Local investors should also take advantage of the situation and divert their investments in the regions once considered lawless, said Patron ICST Shahid Rasheed Butt.

He said that FATA has immense potential for investment because of its advantageous location and hardworking workforce which could not be exploited in the past due to the security situation.

Shahid Rasheed Butt said that lack of commitment on part of the successive governments has left that area backward, thus the incumbent government should try its best to developed this area.

Investment in FATA amounts to investing in the bright and secure future of Pakistan, therefore, it should get due importance, he demanded.

The business leader said that law and order situation in FATA during the last few years has forced many industries to relocate rendering many jobless.

Now all those who have left FATA and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa should return to take advantage of the peaceful and enabling situation, he said.

He said that terrorists have been defeated therefore some enemy countries have launched some youngsters to defame and demoralise army.

Their efforts will not damage the reputation of defence forces among masses and the business community, he said.

He demanded stern action against anti-Pakistan elements who are trying to misguide masses.=DNA

================