President Dr Arif Alvi and Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Sunday issued separate messages on the eve of Christmas felicitating members of Christian community on the occasion while also highlighting the right of minorities under the Constitution.
“Our religion, Islam fully recognises and protects the rights of minorities. The Government of Pakistan provides equal opportunities to all citizens irrespective of their colour, class and creed,” President Dr Arif said in his statement.
He referred to the Quaid-e-Azam’s historic speech of August 11, 1947 in which the founder of the nation stated that everyone, irrespective of colour, creed, and religion, would have equal rights, privileges, and obligations and complete religious freedom in the state of Pakistan.
“As we gather with family and friends to celebrate the festive occasion, let us also remember the values that bind us together as a nation—respect for diversity, protection of minority rights, and a commitment to building a tolerant and inclusive society,” he said.
Extending his warmest and heartfelt greetings to the Christian community on the joyous occasion, he assured them that the government is committed to ensuring the protection of the rights of all religious minorities in Pakistan.
“Together, we can work towards a brighter and more harmonious future for our great nation,” he said.
Caretaker PM Anwaarul Haq Kakar said the Christian community has laid down their lives for strengthening the foundation of the country and for its integrity and solidarity.
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The PM said the Prophet of Allah Hazrat Essa (AS) healed the pain of humanity and took the message of God to the whole of humanity. Hazrat Essa (AS), the PM said, reformed humanity with teachings of peace, brotherhood, tolerance and forbearance which led to the success of humans.
“The moral teachings and the guidance of the Prophet were a beacon for humanity for all times to come. In the present age, there is an acute need to follow Hazrat Essa's message of human compassion, affection, tolerance and fraternity,” he added.
He said the state and every citizen have the responsibility to protect places of worship.
The PM said the white colour in Pakistan's flag represents minorities including the Christian community which played a vital role in the progress and development of the country in all fields including defence, judiciary, arts, sports and education.
"The issues faced by Pakistan can only be resolved when we rise above the distinctions of colour, ethnicity, and religion and work day and night as a united nation for the progress of the country.
“Pakistan is our home and on this occasion of Christmas we should pledge that together we will make Pakistan a model of religious tolerance and brotherhood and play our foremost role in taking our country out of all kinds of difficulties," he concluded.
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