Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has stressed the importance of upholding the rights of all citizens for national unity and development, highlighting the role of the Christian community as a testament to the diversity of the nation.
In his Christmas message on December 25, 2024, President Zardari extended heartfelt greetings to the Christian community in Pakistan and around the world. He stated that Christmas brings a universal message of love, generosity, compassion, unity, and hope, inspiring followers of all religions. He emphasized that the day marks the birth of Jesus Christ, whose message of love, empathy, and peace continues to guide and motivate people today.
The President noted that Christmas encourages working towards building an inclusive and peaceful society. He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s constitution guarantees the fundamental rights of all citizens, regardless of their religion, and grants them the freedom to worship and live according to their beliefs.
Recalling the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, President Zardari said that Jinnah envisioned a Pakistan where people of all religions could progress on an equal footing. He underscored that national unity and development depend on the respect for the rights of all citizens.
The President also acknowledged the significant contributions of the Christian community to Pakistan’s development in fields such as education, health, community service, social welfare, and public service. He praised the Christian community’s role as a proud example of the nation’s diversity.
He called for a renewed commitment to religious harmony, mutual respect, and the protection of the rights of minorities. President Zardari stressed the importance of discouraging intolerance and discrimination, ensuring that every person in Pakistan is treated with dignity and feels safe.
In his message, the President urged everyone to extend friendship and solidarity to one another, including to the needy, inspired by the spirit of Christmas. He expressed hope that the festive season would bring joy, prosperity, and hope to the Christian community.
He concluded with a prayer that this Christmas brings happiness, success, and hope to the Christian community.
