ISLAMABAD: President Arif Alvi 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 is celebrating 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.
“On this happy day, I highly appreciate the services and role being played by all the minorities living in Pakistan, particularly the Christian community for the socio-economic development of the country in general and in the fields of health and education in particular,” the president said in his message.
He felicitated and wished Merry Christmas to the Christians in Pakistan and all over the world celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ who was sent to this world as a symbol of peace, brotherhood and respect for humanity.
“This day reminds us of the values that Jesus Christ observed in his own life. He not only healed the ailing humanity but preached the divine values of tolerance, love and compassion,” the president added.
‘Govt committed to bring minorities into national mainstream’
Prime Minister Imran Khan also felicitated Christian community around the world on the auspicious occasion of Christmas. “The festivities of Christmas teach us universal love, brotherhood, tolerance and self-sacrifice which plays a pivotal role in moving any society on the path of development,” he added.
The Prime Minister said the sincere and invaluable services rendered by the Christian community in the fields of defence, education, health as well as economic development of the country had always been commendable.
“Being equal citizens of the state, the Government will empower them to use their abilities for national development. Our policies are geared towards creating harmony and cohesion between people of all faiths.”
He said, “Our government is doing its utmost duty to bring you into the national mainstream, so that you can play your role as active citizens in the society in a positive way and help this country move on the path of development.”
The prime minister also said that the government of Pakistan held a sacrosanct the equality and freedom of conscience of all citizens irrespective of belief, creed or religion. “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,” he concluded.
