Prime Minister Imran Khan Saturday wished all the Pakistani Christian citizens “a very Happy Christmas” and promised to safeguard the rights and privileges enjoyed by all minorities.
The premier took to Twitter to felicitate the Christians and said: “Wishing all our Christian citizens a very Happy Christmas.”
In a separate message on the occasion of Christmas, Imran Khan said, “On the auspicious occasion of Christmas, I on my behalf of the government and people of Pakistan extend heartfelt congratulations to the Christian community around the world and especially in Pakistan for celebrating the festival of Christmas with devotion and respect.”
“The festivities of Christmas teach us universal love, brotherhood, tolerance and self-sacrifice which plays a pivotal role in moving any society on the path of development.”
“The birth of Prophet Jesus is considered a symbol of peace, brotherhood, tolerance and respect for the entire humanity throughout the world. “He not only healed the ailing humanity, but preached the divine values of tolerance, love and compassion.
“He guided people towards virtuous living and urged them to seek divine mercy. As a divine messenger, Prophet Jesus’ teachings are for adherents of all religions.” The prime minister said the sincere and invaluable services rendered by the Christians in the fields of defence, education, health as well as economic development of the country had always been commendable.
“Being equal citizens of the state, the Government will empower them to use their abilities for national development. Our policies are geared towards creating harmony and cohesion between people of all faiths.”
Meanwhile, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and other services chiefs also extended felicitations to the Christian community in Armed Forces and across Pakistan on Christmas in a message released from the Twitter handle of Inter Services Public Relations.
The message from ISPR further read that from the creation of Pakistan to date their sacrifices and contributions in service of Pakistan are phenomenal.
