Pakistani leadership wish Merry Christmas to Christian community in Pakistan and all over the world
On the eve of Christmas, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan and President Dr Arif Alvi have wished the Christian community in Pakistan and all over the world a very happy Christmas.
“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” said Prime Minister Imran Khan.
“Christmas is an occasion to reflect on the message of Prophet Jesus, the eternal message of love, peace, tolerance and compassion for humanity” he said.
Contribution of minorities in Pakistan’s development
PM Khan reaffirmed Pakistan government’s commitment to preserving the sanctity of existence and equality of opportunities enjoyed by all Pakistanis including minorities. He also acknowledged the productive role that by all the minorities in Pakistan, particularly the Christian community for the socio-economic development of the country.
He noted the minorities are actively contributing to the prosperity of the country in diverse fields including politics, social services, military, education, health. “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.”
Happiness and blessings
Extending felicitations to the Christian community on the joyous occasion of Christmas and new year, President Dr. Arif Alvi said “Christmas is an occasion to share the happiness and blessings of God with our loved ones.”
On this day, “we pay tribute to Jesus Christ (PBUH) who was a symbol of peace, brotherhood and respect for entire humanity who not only healed the ailing humanity but preached the divine values of tolerance, love and compassion.”
Pakistan’s President recalled that “the father of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, was also a strong advocate of the rights of minorities and declared in March 1948 that members of every community will be treated as citizens of Pakistan with equal rights, privileges and obligations and that minorities will be safeguarded and protected”.
He said that all citizens of the country enjoy the freedom of religion and worship under Pakistan’s constitution. “Our policies are focused on creating harmony and cohesion between people of all faiths,” he said, adding that the government Twould continue to take steps for their welfare and would try its utmost to uphold the principles of equality and justice for all communities in Pakistan.
“We are proud of our Christian community, as they are an essential part of our multilingual, multireligious polity. Today, we also reiterate our commitment 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. May the blessings of Allah Almighty be with us all.”