Islamabad (Web Desk/Agencies): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday extended his heartfelt Christmas greetings to Christians both within Pakistan and around the world.
Addressed an event held to celebrate Christmas at the PM House, the premier emphasised the essential role of safeguarding the rights of minorities, particularly the Christian community, in achieving the nation's development and prosperity.
PM Shehbaz highlighted the importance of unity and collective effort for the welfare of humanity.
"The Holy Quran has a revered mention of Prophet Jesus Christ (PBUH) and Hazrat Maryam (PBUH).
Today, the birthplace of Prophet Jesus Christ is tainted in bloodbath and thousands of Palestinians including children, youth, elderly and women have been killed. All Christians and Muslims should unite and join forces to stop this bloodshed and uphold the mission of peace of Jesus Christ in Palestine’s holy land," he urged.
The prime minister acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Christian community in Pakistan, from their significant role in the nation’s independence to their dedication in fields like education, defense, and national security.
"Cecil Chaudhary and Justice Cornelius are known to everyone," he noted, paying tribute to these remarkable figures.
Reflecting on his own educational journey, PM Shehbaz shared that both he and his brother, Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, were educated in missionary schools, where the teachings played a pivotal role in shaping their lives.
"We should promote unity, interfaith harmony and tolerance in the society to ensure protection of the rights of the minorities and ensure that they consider themselves as a respected member of the society. Pakistan belongs to all and we should celebrate this day as a more revered occasion as it is the birthday of Jesus Christ, and Quaid e Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah as well," he remarked.
The prime minister also referenced a statement by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, which underscored the importance of minority rights in Pakistan’s vision.
He reassured the Christian community, saying, "Protection and promotion of minorities rights has been our top priority. You all are the proud citizens of Pakistan. Your equal development and progress is the basic point of our fundamental agenda. I extend you the felicitations of Christmas and ensure that your protection, security and prosperity is not only dear to us but our responsibility."
In a show of support, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar spoke about representing the Christian constituents who had supported him during his electoral campaign. He praised the Christian community's contribution to the country's independence, nation-building, and their sacrifices for the motherland.
"PM Shehbaz Sharif during his tenure as chief minister Punjab awarded scholarships and laptops and endowment stipends to Christian students on merit without any discrimination," he said.
Tarar also highlighted the achievements of Christian athletes, including the Sohail sisters, who won 22 medals in various sports, and Brigadier Helen Merry Roberts, the first female Christian officer in the military, acknowledging their exceptional service to the nation.
The event concluded with the premier and other officials cutting a Christmas cake, followed by a group photo with chorus singers who performed a vibrant musical piece, marking the joyous occasion.
