23 March 2004	Tuesday	01 Safar 1425

LAHORE, March 22: The government has launched Wana operation because it wanted to move along with the rest of the world. This was stated by Governor Khalid Maqbool while talking to reporters at the APWA College for Women's convocation on Monday.

Terming the operation a part of the anti-terrorism campaign, he said every government took some steps to ensure peace in its country. He said the government had taken solid steps to end terrorism and fanaticism in the country. It had created an atmosphere of tolerance in the country during the last four years, he added.

Earlier, speaking at the convocation, Mr Maqbool said the government had taken steps to empower women in society. "Economic empowerment of women is one of the prime objectives of the government," he said and asked people to shun orthodox ideology, which was a major hurdle in the progress of the country.

He assured principal Dr Nasrin of providing financial assistance to upgrade the college. Later, the governor gave away medals and certificates among the students.