'Punjab hub of religious harmony'

Conveying a message of happiness and love to the Christian community across the globe on the eve of Christmas, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that the province has become the centre of interfaith harmony in the country.

The chief minister said she equally shared the rejoicement of the community in Christmas festivities. "Christmas conveys a message of peace, love and service," she said.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said, "The Christian community of Pakistan has always rendered commendable services in the development, education, health and other sectors of the country. I highly acknowledge invaluable sacrifices and hard work of the minority community and pay them rich tribute as well."

She added, "The Punjab government is taking vigorous steps for the protection of the rights of all minorities and their welfare. It is a matter of great pride that Punjab has become the centre of interfaith harmony in Pakistan. We are committed to the protection of minorities and a better life for them as it is among Punjab government's foremost priorities."

She said, "The Punjab government is launching Minority Card to give financial assistance to needy members of minority communities. According to the vision of Quaid-i-Azam, we will establish such a Pakistan where every religion and every community gets equal rights and protection. The atmosphere of love, tolerance, brotherhood and religious harmony is the real strength of our country."

In her message on the birth anniversary of the founder of Pakistan, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also paid tribute to Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's unparalleled leadership, unwavering determination and tireless efforts.

"Quaid-i-Azam's vision teaches us how to build a great nation on the basis of unity, faith and discipline. Quaid-i-Azam dreamed of such a Pakistan where every citizen has equal opportunities for equality, justice and progress.

Muhammad Ali Jinnah's Pakistan was a symbol of peace, love and progress."

She added, "All energies have been dedicated to turning this dream into reality. In the light of the vision of Quaid-i-Azam, public welfare, education, health and development projects are being implemented. We are determined to establish such a society which depicts practical manifestation of his sterling principles."

The chief minister said, "The development and stability of Pakistan is only possible when we make the thoughts of Quaid-i-Azam part and parcel of our national character and spirit."

"No lapse in the security of Christian brothers and sisters will be tolerated on Christmas Day," said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif while directing all district administrations and police officials to ensure foolproof security arrangements across the province on the occasion.