Islamabad (PTI): Political activities will now be allowed in Pakistan's Federally Administrative Tribal Areas (FATA) under a slew of reforms unveiled by President Asif Ali Zardari for the Taliban-infested tribal belt in a bid to extricate the lawless region from the grip of militants.

Describing the move as a gift to the nation on Pakistan's 63rd Independence Day, Mr. Zardari said people in the seven tribal areas can now have an identity as they will be able to participate in political activities and exercise their right to vote.

Political parties were previously banned in FATA where politicians were subject to arrest and the move is aimed at bringing the tribals there to the national mainstream.

"From today political activities will be started and be allowed in FATA," Mr. Zardari told senior politicians in a speech late last night marking Pakistan's 63rd independence day while announcing the political and judicial reforms for the region which has become a safe haven for Taliban and al-Qaeda militants.

"In the long run we must defeat the militant mindset to defend our country, our democracy, our institutions and our way of life," Mr. Zardari was quoted as saying by state news agency APP during the address.

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