MINGORA, Jan 28: Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani visited Swat on Wednesday and gave fresh directives for the operation in the volatile valley.

He was briefed by Lt-Gen Ijaz Awan, the in-charge of the Swat operation, on the situation in the region, an ISPR press release said.

Official sources said that a new strategy to combat militancy was also discussed.

Addressing troops, Gen Kayani reiterated that the army had both the will and resolve to flush out militants and establish the writ of the government.

“No amount of sacrifice will deter us from doing our duty.” He lauded the morale of troops in the war zone.

During the day-long visit, the COAS met field commanders and troops engaged in the operation. He also met elders of Swat and officials of the civil administration. On arrival, Gen Kayani was received by Peshawar Crop Commander Lt-Gen Mohammad Masood Aslam.