LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday reaffirmed the resolve to work for the social uplift and integration of all the minorities in Pakistan while President Asif Zardari said that the Constitution of Pakistan guaranteed constitutional rights to all religious communities.
“I extend my heartfelt greetings to the Christian community of Pakistan and around the world, on the occasion of Easter,” the prime minister said in a message.
He said much more than festivity and celebration, Easter was an occasion to reinforce and reflect on the values of love, tolerance and forgiveness as espoused by Prophet Isa (AS) and was a reminder to emulate these in their daily lives to bring harmony and peace in today’s strife and conflict-ridden world.
On this auspicious occasion, the prime minister also lauded the immense contributions of the Christian community in struggle for the creation of Pakistan and its socio-economic development and firmly believed that they would continue to play their proactive role in the progress and stability of Pakistan.
“While we celebrate diversity of faiths as a source of strength and enrichment in our nation, let us join hands towards building a society that is tolerant and cohesive and together defeat the forces of discord that are trying to cause harm to the fabric of our society,” PM Office Media Wing, in a press release, quoted the prime minister as saying. He also wished the Christian community a happy and peaceful Easter.
President felicitates Christian community on Easter
The president, in a message, said that all the communities enjoyed religious, political, social and economic rights in Pakistan.
“The Christian community is a precious asset for Pakistan,” he said, adding that Easter was an occasion that brought a message of hope, affection and prosperity, President Secretariat Press Wing said in a press release. Appreciating the Christian community’s contributions for the national progress, he further observed that the Christian community had always played their role in the progress and prosperity of the country.
The president reaffirmed that Pakistan was committed to protection of the rights of all communities and would ensure all steps for their prosperity. For the country’s progress and prosperity, entire nation including minorities would have to collectively work together, he added. The Christian community is celebrating the Easter festival today with special prayer ceremonies across the world.
Special prayer ceremonies were arranged in different Churches of the country. Security arrangements were also made around Churches to prevent any untoward incident. The day started with special religious rituals, prayers and an exchange of greetings with messages of goodwill and prosperity. Easter is one of the most festive events among Christians worldwide which commemorates Jesus Christ’s resurrection from death, according to the Bible.
