It says that the founder of Pakistan had clearly guaranteed full religious freedom and equal legal rights to all citizens.
ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed the government’s firm commitment to safeguarding the constitutional rights of minorities, declaring that Pakistan belongs equally to all its citizens, regardless of their faith.
The Prime Minister was addressing 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 the current era and aligned with the founding principles of Islam and the founding vision of Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tribute to the historical and current contributions of the Christian community to the development of Pakistan, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare, defense and the judiciary. He specifically recognized 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 valor and services in the defense of Pakistan; and Dr. Ruth Pfau for her extraordinary humanitarian work in healthcare, especially her lifelong fight against leprosy in the country.
The Prime Minister also recalled the sacrifice of Haroon William (Shaheed), noting that Christian citizens have laid down their lives for the defense of the country and stand shoulder to shoulder 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 that the founder of Pakistan had clearly guaranteed full religious freedom and equal legal rights to all citizens, including the freedom to worship in churches, temples, gurdwaras and mosques without fear. He emphasized that these principles were enshrined in the Constitution and remained fundamental to the policies of the State.
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 the law into his own hands,” he said, adding that the state will 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 inter-religious harmony and mutual respect essential for national unity and progress.
Extending warm greetings to Christian citizens on 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 occasion of the festival.
The ceremony was attended by Archbishop Dr Joseph Arshad, bishops, members of the clergy, diplomats including the Vatican ambassador, federal ministers, parliamentarians and other dignitaries.
