PESHAWAR, July 13: NWFP Governor Ali Mohammad Jan Aurakzai has said poppy cultivation in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas has declined by 45 per cent this year and more reduction in production of the drug will be ensured.

Talking to Country Director of the United Nations Organisation on Drug and Crimes Vincet MacLean and Terrorism cell chief Brain Tylor, who called on him on Thursday, he enumerated efforts being made by the political administrations to eradicate drugs in Fata.

He said the government was applying all means to persuade the growers to cultivate other crops.

The governor highlighted the investment opportunities in Fata, particularly in the mining sector.

He said foreign investors would be encouraged to investment in the sector and provide skills and employment opportunities to local people, who lacked technology to exploit the minerals.

He said that that in most of the tribal areas the law and order situation was conducive for investment and exploring mineral resources.

Mr Maclean appreciated the efforts of the government for eradication of poppy and pledged his support in this regard.

The UN officials hinted at starting some projects in the poppy growing areas of Fata.

WAZIRISTAN FLOOD: In a statement, the governor expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of lives because of the recent torrential rain and flood in North Waziristan.