'Development of Fata vital to counter extremist tendencies'

The United States, along with other members of international community, remains committed to development of tribal areas to counter growth of extremist tendencies, a US official said. He said that the United States has pledged a $750 million assistance package for the uplift of areas along the Pak-Afghan border to improve the living standard of the locals and to wean them away from extremist elements.
The money, to be spent over a period of five years, is aimed at achieving improved governance, infrastructure development, provision of basic facilities and employment opportunities for the people of tribal areas, the official said. The amount, being spent with the assistance of the local government, is focusing on improved healthcare, education, governance and economic development.
Meanwhile, the United States has also committed initially $50,000 for providing humanitarian assistance to the internally displaced people affected by the ongoing military operation in the tribal areas, a spokesman of the US embassy said. He said that both countries have been co-operating for a sustainable development plan for the tribal areas to address the conditions that lead to extremism and terrorism.