ISLAMABAD, Nov 21 (APP): The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani today visited Swat. During this visit, COAS interacted with a wide segment of the society including elders and children.COAS expressed satisfaction at the pace of the restoration of normalcy in the Valley. He attributed the success to the will and determination of the people of Swat.COAS stated that the sparkle in the eyes of the young children of Swat manifests their intensity of resolve and faith in the destiny of Pakistan.

This is testimony to the fact that even the most difficult of the challenges can be surmounted.

During this visit, COAS also inaugurated a school and a mosque reconstructed and renovated by the Army through contributions made by the soldiers.

He commended the local military leaders for undertaking this Nation building task through active community participation.

While interacting with elders and notables of the area, COAS stressed the need for a compatible civilian surge to ensure that the hard earned peace and stability in Swat is provided a permanent anchorage.

He clearly stated that Army will stay in Swat and will continue to participate in the reconstruction phase.

Earlier, on arrival in the area, COAS was received by Lieutenant General Muhammad Masood Aslam, Corps Commander Peshawar.