Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif has said that the present government would continue to safeguard the rights and privileges, enjoyed by all minorities. "Being the equal citizens of the state, the government will empower them to use their abilities for national development, progress and prosperity. Our policies are geared towards creating harmony and cohesion amongst people of all faiths," the Prime Minister said in his message on the occasion of Christmas being celebrated across the world on Friday.
He expressed the confidence that the Christian brethren would continue to play their due role in the development of Pakistan with complete dedication. On the joyous day of Christmas, the Prime Minister also wished merry Christmas to the Christian brethren in Pakistan and all over the world. He said the Jesus Christ was sent to this world as a symbol of peace, brotherhood and respect for the entire humanity. He not only healed the ailing humanity but preached the divine values of tolerance, love and compassion, he added.
The Prime Minister said Christmas was a time for celebration and rejoicing for Christians all over the world. "It is also time to reflect on the messages and teachings of Jesus Christ; the message of love, peace, tolerance and compassion for humanity. It is time of re-dedication to his teachings and to seek forgiveness for sins. We, as Muslims deeply revere Jesus Christ as one of the great messengers of Allah Almighty," he said. Nawaz Sharif said Pakistan's Constitution enshrined Quaid-i-Azam's vision and safeguarded the legitimate interests of all minorities living in the country. The Quaid had, right from the first day of creation of Pakistan, unequivocally declared a policy of equality, freedom and security for all communities living in Pakistan irrespective of their religion, profession or ethnic origin, the Prime Minister remarked.