ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has reiterated the commitment of Pakistan to the religious, social, political, and economic rights of the minority communities.
In a statement issued to commemorate Minorities Day on 11 August 2024, the President recognised the positive role of the minorities in the socio-economic development of Pakistan and reaffirmed the commitment of the country to the ideals as envisaged by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in his historic address on the same day in 1947, reports APP.
President Zardari emphasized that the Constitution of Pakistan provides complete protection to the rights of the minorities, and Islam itself promotes the protection of the religious freedoms of all citizens. He said he was pleased with the steps that the government has taken to empower the minorities and to make them a part of the national life.
Some of the initiatives included the 5 percent job quota to minorities in government services, reserved seats in the National Assembly and Senate, financial assistance, marriage grants, scholarships, and funds to maintain and preserve places of worship belonging to the minority communities.
The President pointed out that every Pakistani, irrespective of faith, caste, colour, and creed, is entitled to live freely and practise their religion without fear or discrimination. He urged the religious leaders, minority representatives, and the media to contribute their part in creating awareness, interfaith harmony, and mutual respect in society.
To assure the minority communities of the state’s commitment to their security and development, President Zardari was optimistic that they would continue to play a critical role in the development of Pakistan. He ended by wishing the minorities in the country a happy Minorities Day.
