ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday extended “heartfelt greetings” on the joyous and blessed occasion of Christmas to the Christian communities, especially for those “brothers and sisters living in Pakistan.”
According to a press release issued by the Press Information Department (PID), the premier wished “all fellow citizens the traditional joys of this festive occasion,” praying that it brings “peace, stability, and prosperity for our country, including the valued Christian community.”
“Christmas is not only a specific religious festival, it is also a universal message of love, peace, tolerance, and goodwill for all humanity, bringing people closer to one another,” the premier said.
He said that the Christian community in Pakistan represented an “active, positive, and peaceful segment of our society and has made valuable contributions to the country’s socio-economic development,” terming their “sincere efforts" as "truly commendable!”
In a post on X, PM Sharif said Pakistan’s Christian community was “an integral part of our national fabric,” adding that their contributions are “deeply valued and a source of collective pride.”
PM Sharif said that the sacrifices made by the community, “standing shoulder to shoulder with the entire nation in the fight against terrorism, are a source of great pride for us.”
“Their significant services in the fields of education, healthcare, and other walks of life have greatly contributed to the promotion of social harmony,” he said.
The premier said that it remained a “key priority” for Pakistan to “ensure interfaith harmony, protection of rights and freedoms, economic well-being, and equal opportunities” for professional growth for all citizens without discrimination of “religion, race, or ethnicity.”
He called on the country to renew “our collective solemn resolve that people of all faiths and backgrounds will continue to work together constructively to build a strong, secure, and prosperous Pakistan for future generations.”
“With best wishes, I extend my heartfelt Christmas greetings to all,” the premier said
President Zardari honors Quaid-e-Azam
Separately, according to a press release by PID, President Asif Ali Zardari said that the country honored “Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Father of the Nation, and remember the conviction and hard work that shaped Pakistan.”
“His leadership and principles continue to guide us as we navigate the challenges of our time,” the president said.
He said that Jinnah stood for “democracy, justice, and equality.”
“These values remain central to our national journey and must continue to shape our choices and institutions,” he said, adding that Jinnah called for “unity, faith and discipline,” giving our nation a clear direction.
“These principles remain essential for our progress and for maintaining social cohesion and confidence,” he said.
The president, while citing Jinnah’s 150th birth anniversary next year, said that it was important that we “reflect on his life and struggle in a meaningful and thoughtful manner.”
“This milestone offers an opportunity to renew our commitment to his vision and to pass on his ideals to future generations with honesty and purpose,” he added.
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