ISLAMABAD, Jan 20: The first major contingent of Nato forces deployed in the quake-affected areas left Pakistan after providing necessary rescue, relief and rehabilitation assistance to the survivors. The 171-member batch, mainly army personnel from Spain, returned to their country after completing a three-month mission in these areas.

Commander Nato Forces Pakistan Air Commodore Andrew Walton, Land Commander Nato Brigadier General Josef Bautis and Col Muhammad Shafi Ghazi of Federal Relief Commission (FRC) were present at Chaklala Airbase. Col Shafi presented a souvenir to Brig Josef to remind them of their contributions in the relief and rehabilitation of quake survivors.

He thanked the departing troops and appreciated their whole-hearted efforts in affording relief to these people.

During their stay in Pakistan the Nato troops remained busy in reconstruction of roads and schools besides constructing 60 shelters in the quake-hit areas.

The remaining personnel of Nato Forces will lave Pakistan by first week of February after successfully completing their relief operations in Bagh.

“Nato came here on the request of Pakistan government and we brought with us medical capability, engineers and helicopters crews, Commander Nato Forces Pakistan, Andrew Walton said while talking to APP.

He said during operation Nato personnel remained busy in preparing roads and clearing debris from the streets of Bagh.

“We also provided fresh water, helicopters for carrying relief goods from Islamabad for victims and a helicopters’ refuelling site at Abbottabad.”