Christmas greetings: President, PM pledge freedom of conscience of all citizens

Alvi, Imran highlight spirit of auspicious occasion of peace, brotherhood

ISLAMABAD:

President Arif Aliv and Prime Minister Imran Khan have extended their “heartiest greetings to all our Christian brethren” on the occasion of Christmas and reiterated the government’s resolve to empower the minorities socially, economically and politically for the national development.

The Christian community will celebrate its religious festival of Christmas with fervour and zeal today. In their separate messages, Alvi and Imran highlighted spirit of auspicious occasion of peace, brotherhood and love for the whole humanity.

“Much more than festivity and celebration, the spirit of Christmas is to share, to reach out, and to love all humanity. Jesus Christ brought and preached the message of peace, brotherhood and love for the whole humanity,” Alvi said.

“I also take this opportunity to pay the highest tribute to the sacrifices made by our Christian brethren in Pakistan’s fight against terrorism. The Government of Pakistan holds sacrosanct the equality and freedom of conscience of all citizens irrespective of belief, creed or religion,” he added.



“We are committed to building a society that respects difference and finds strength in diversity; a nation that is tolerant and cohesive; and a state that provides equal rights and opportunities to all citizens. We are proud of our Christian brethren; and together we are building a strong and prosperous Pakistan for our children.”

In his message, Imran reiterated that the government treats all minority citizens as equal citizens of Pakistan and undertakes to empower them to use their abilities socially, economically and politically for the national development.

“Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah had, right from the first day of creation of Pakistan unequivocally declared a policy of equality, freedom and security for all communities living in Pakistan irrespective of their religion, profession or ethnic origin,” he said.

The prime minister said that he was immensely happy to see that the minorities in Pakistan were actively contributing to the development and prosperity of the country without any hindrance, including serving in the armed forces.

“I greatly appreciate their patriotism, devoted service and sincere attachment to the country and I am confident that they will continue to play their due role for peace, progress and prosperity of Pakistan with even more dedication,” he added.

“This reflects the communal harmony and profound cohesion between all faiths practiced across the length and breadth of the country. This is the spirit that binds us together as one family to celebrate our blessings and the values we hold dear.”

Meanwhile, the government has taken numerous steps to facilitate the Christians. The law-enforcement agencies have been deployed around the Churches and Christian areas as well as parks, food outlet and other places where the Christians are expected to celebrate their festival.