LAHORE: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Gen Raheel Sharif on Friday expressed optimism about a brighter future for Pakistan, saying Operation Zarb-i-Azb had laid a strong foundation for peace and progress.

“Operation Zarb-i-Azb has laid a strong foundation for peace and progress of the country. You can play an important role in taking Pakistan to new heights,” the COAS said while speaking to students and teachers during his visit to the Government College University (GCU), his alma mater.

“Pakistanis are a great nation and our human resource is our real asset.”

He emphasised that the youth should always focus on ‘3Cs’ — character, courage and competence — and strive for honour and dignity through hard work and faith in God.

While paying tribute to the faculty and management of the university for their role in grooming the youth, Gen Raheel said the GCU had always played a pivotal role in producing a stream of scholars, scientists, artists and intellectuals of international acclaim.

To revive old memories, he visited various sections of the institute. He also planted a sapling, besides meeting teachers led by Vice Chancellor Prof Hassan Amir Shah.

“I was also a member of the GCU’s swimming team,” an official quoted the army chief as saying while recalling memories from 42 years ago as a student at the varsity.

The official said the army chief was also presented with a copy of his admission form and a shield.

A number of students gathered on both sides of the road and saw him off amid applause.

Published in Dawn November 19th, 2016