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
A message of hope, peace and compassion
President Asif Ali Zardari also extended greetings and good wishes to Christians in Pakistan and around the world on the occasion of Christmas, reaffirming the country’s commitment to religious freedom, equality and harmony.
According to PTV News, the president said Christmas carried a universal message of hope, peace and compassion, and highlighted values that unite communities across faiths.
In his message, he said, “Christmas is a time of hope, peace and compassion. The message of love and service to humanity that this season brings reminds us of the deep bonds that unite all people.”
President Zardari recalled Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s address to the first Constituent Assembly on August 11, 1947, saying it outlined a vision of Pakistan based on freedom and equality for all citizens.
The president’s message cited an excerpt from the Quaid’s speech, stating: “You are free; you are free to go to your temples, you are free to go to your mosques or any other place of worship in this State of Pakistan.
“You may belong to any religion, caste or creed — that has nothing to do with the business of the State.”
President Zardari said that “these words remain a powerful commitment to religious freedom and mutual respect among citizens”.
He said Christian citizens of Pakistan had made significant contributions to national life, including in politics, national defence, education, literature, arts, music, healthcare, social welfare and public service.
“Their efforts strengthen our shared progress and enrich our national life.”
The president said Pakistan’s Constitution guaranteed equal rights and freedom of religion for every citizen and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to peaceful coexistence.
“We remain committed to fostering harmony, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among all communities. Our diversity is a source of strength and should inspire greater unity, understanding and cooperation,” he said.
Concluding his message, President Zardari said, “May the spirit of Christmas inspire us all to uphold compassion and justice and to work together for the welfare of our nation.”
Separately, the armed forces also extended “heartfelt” Christmas greetings to the Christian community, acknowledging their valuable contributions to the nation’s progress, APP reported, citing a statement by Inter-Services Public Relations.
The statement said the armed forces reaffirmed their commitment to the Quaid’s vision of equal rights, religious freedom and harmony for all citizens.
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