PESHAWAR, Sept 9: Interior Minister Aftab Ahmad Khan Sherpao has said that President Pervez Musharraf’s recent visit to Afghanistan will go a long way in countering terrorism and improving ties with Kabul.

Addressing a public meeting at Tangi Bar in Charsadda on Saturday, he said efforts made by the government in Waziristan indicated its resolve to restore peace and stability and create an atmosphere conducive to progress and development in the agency.

He said the federal government was trying to remove the sense of deprivation among people of the tribal region by bringing it on a par with developed areas.

The minister criticised the obscurantist elements who he said were putting obstacles in the path of development by exploiting the emotions of the residents of backward areas.

Referring to the ongoing mega development projects worth Rs140 billion in Balochistan, he said the aim of these plans was to strengthen the underdeveloped areas as the strength of the federation lay in strengthening provinces.

About the problems of the area, he said recent floods had vindicated the government’s efforts for the construction of Munda dam which would not only thwart floods but also help improve the economy of the area.

Responding to the demands of Tangi Bar, the interior minister approved the expansion of the Bar room and provision of books and computers for its library. He also announced a Rs3 million grant for the Tangi Bar.

The new cabinet of the Tangi Bar took the oath on the occasion.—APP