February 04, 2007	Sunday	Muharram 15, 1428

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 3: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has said that bringing peace and security to the Federally-Administered Tribal Areas is one of the top priorities of the government.

He was talking to NWFP Governor Ali Mohammad Jan Aurakzai who called on him at the Prime Minister’s House here on Saturday.

Mr Aziz reiterated the government’s resolve that it would not allow Pakistan’s territory to be used for any activity which would have some negative impact on the security of the entire region.

He said that fencing at selective places along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border would help prevent illegal movement across the border.

Pakistan had always wanted a strong, stable and vibrant Afghanistan and return of refugees, he said, adding that Islamabad would support a martial plan type approach for Afghanistan’s reconstruction, elimination of drug trade and improved security.

The prime minister said that Pakistan had contributed $350 million for building roads, schools, hospitals and other much-needed facilities for the people of the war-torn country.

He said that the government would continue providing more funds for the development of the Pakistani tribal areas with particular focus on health and education.

Mr Aziz said that Economic Opportunity Zones were being set up in Fata to expedite industrialisation, create new jobs and generate economic activities.

The prime minister hoped that Fata elders would help the government in improving the life standard of their people.