ISLAMABAD: The Christian community in Pakistan is celebrating the Christmas festival like elsewhere in the world today.
Special ceremonies are being held in churches across the country in which prayers will also be held for the solidarity and prosperity of Pakistan.
In his message on the occasion of Christmas, the President Dr Arif Alvi felicitating the Christian community said as a Messenger of Allah, Jesus Christ (PBUH) is venerable not only to Christians but also to Muslims.
He said that all citizens of the country enjoy the freedom of religion and worship under the constitution, and the government has empowered them to develop their abilities to their fullest extent.
“Our policies are focused on creating harmony and cohesion between people of all faiths. The Government of Pakistan would continue to take steps for their welfare and would try its utmost to uphold the principles of equality and justice for all communities residing in Pakistan,” said the president.
The president extended his heartiest appreciation to the Christian community for their patriotism and devoted service to the country and said they are an essential part of our multilingual, multi-religious polity.
He reiterated to build a society based on mutual respect of all religions and communities, a tolerant society and a state that provides equal rights and opportunities to all its citizens.
Prime Minister Imran Khan in his message said the government is dedicated to preserve the sanctity of existence and equality of opportunities enjoyed by all Pakistanis including minorities.
He extended heartiest felicitations and wished Merry Christmas to the Christian brethren in Pakistan and all over the world. “Today, millions of Christians all around the world and in Pakistan celebrate the birth of Prophet Jesus who was sent to this world as a symbol of peace, brotherhood and respect for the entire humanity.”
He said that minorities are actively contributing to the development and prosperity of the country without any hindrance. “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,” he added.
He acknowledged the diverse and productive role being played by all the minorities living in Pakistan particularly the Christian community for the socio-economic development of the country. I wish them a very happy Christmas.
