President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have extended warm greetings and sincere wishes to Christian citizens of Pakistan and to Christian communities around the world on the joyous occasion of Christmas, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
In his message issued on Thursday, President Zardari said Christmas is a time of hope, peace and compassion. “The message of love and service to humanity that this season brings reminds us of the deep bonds that unite all people.”
“Father of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, articulated a vision of Pakistan rooted in freedom and equality for all. In his historic address to the first Constituent Assembly on 11 August 1947, he said: ‘You are free; you are free to go to your temples, you are free to go to your mosques or any other place of worship in this State of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion, caste or creed — that has nothing to do with the business of the State.’ These words remain a powerful affirmation of our commitment to religious freedom and mutual respect among all citizens,” the president added.
He said Christian citizens of Pakistan have made important contributions to our society in politics, national defence, education, literature, arts, music, health care, social welfare and public service. Their efforts strengthen our shared progress and enrich our national life.
“On this day we must not forget the role of S. P. Singha, the Speaker of Punjab Legislative Assembly who cast his crucial vote to join Pakistan. This is also the day to remember our war hero Cecil Chaudhry who in 1965 war miraculously destroyed Indian aircrafts, ammunition and fuel depots in the most dangerous mission and returned with his badly damaged aircraft only after completing his mission,” he added.
President Zardari pointed out that Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees equal rights and freedom of religion for every citizen. “We remain committed to fostering harmony, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among all communities. Our diversity is a source of strength and should inspire greater unity, understanding and cooperation.”
On this blessed day, the president wished the Christian community a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with peace, health and prosperity. “May the spirit of Christmas inspire us all to uphold compassion and justice and to work together for the welfare of our nation,” he added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also extended heartfelt greetings to the Christian community in Pakistan and around the world on the occasion of Christmas.
In his message, the prime minister said Christmas conveys a universal message of love, peace, tolerance, and goodwill for all humanity.
He prayed that the birth anniversary of Hazrat Isa (AS), would bring peace, stability, and prosperity to the Christian community and the country.
The prime minister said Hazrat Isa (AS) holds a revered status in Islam as a great Prophet of Allah who preached peace, brotherhood, compassion, and righteous living.
Highlighting the role of the Christian community in Pakistan, he said that they were an active, positive and peaceful segment of society and had rendered commendable services in education, healthcare and other sectors, contributing to social harmony and national development.
The prime minister also paid tribute to the sacrifices of the Christian community in the fight against terrorism, saying their contributions alongside the rest of the nation were a source of pride for Pakistan.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, he said ensuring equal rights, freedoms, economic well-being, and equal opportunities for all citizens without discrimination remained among the top priorities of the government.
The prime minister urged people of all faiths to work together for a strong, secure, and prosperous Pakistan and concluded by extending warm Christmas greetings to the Christian community.