It states that the founder of Pakistan clearly guaranteed full religious freedom and equal rights to all citizens
ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to safeguarding the constitutional rights of minorities, saying Pakistan belongs equally to all its citizens, irrespective of their religion.
The Prime Minister was speaking at a Christmas ceremony held here at the Prime Minister’s Office.
Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister highlighted the teachings of Jesus Christ (Hazrat Isa AS), describing him as a symbol of peace, compassion and service to humanity. He said the message of love, justice and tolerance preached by Jesus Christ was deeply relevant in today’s times and aligned with the fundamental principles of Islam and the founding vision of Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tribute to the historic and continuing contributions of the Christian community to the development of Pakistan, particularly in the areas of education, health, defense and justice system. He specifically thanked Justice AR Cornelius, former Chief Justice of Pakistan, for his exemplary role in strengthening the country’s judicial system; Air Commodore Cecil Chaudhry (Shaheed) for his gallantry and services in the defense of Pakistan; and Dr. Ruth Pfau for her extraordinary humanitarian work in health care, particularly her lifelong fight against leprosy in the country.
The Prime Minister also recalled the sacrifice of Haroon William (Shaheed), noting that Christian citizens laid down their lives in defense of the country and stand with their Muslim brothers to protect the sovereignty of Pakistan.
The Prime Minister, referring to the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, said the founder of Pakistan had clearly guaranteed full religious freedom and equal legal rights to all citizens, including the freedom to worship without fear in churches, temples, gurdwaras and mosques. He stressed that these principles were enshrined in the Constitution and remained at the heart of state policies.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured the Christian community that the government will not tolerate any form of injustice, discrimination or violence against minorities. “Whether Christian, Hindu or Sikh, no one will be allowed to take law into their own hands,” he said, adding that the state would ensure protection of life, property and religious dignity of all Pakistanis.
He further stressed that Islam teaches respect for all religions and prohibits hurting the feelings of others, calling interfaith harmony and mutual respect essential to national unity and progress.
Extending warm greetings to Christian citizens on the occasion of Christmas, the Prime Minister highlighted the special significance of December 25, which marks not only the birth of Jesus Christ but also the birthday of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He prayed for peace, prosperity and harmony in the country and congratulated the Christian community on the festive occasion.
The ceremony was attended by Archbishop Dr Joseph Arshad, bishops, clergy, diplomats including the Vatican Ambassador, federal ministers, parliamentarians and other dignitaries.
