ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: President Dr Arif Alvi has extended his heartiest greetings to all our Christian brethren on the occasion of Christmas.
In his message on the occasion of Christmas being celebrated all over the world including Pakistan on Wednesday, the president said that much more than festivity and celebration, the spirit of Christmas is to share, to reach out, and to love all humanity.
The president said that Jesus Christ brought and preached the message of peace, brotherhood and love for the whole humanity. He guided the people towards virtuous living and urged them to seek divine mercy. As a Divine Messenger, Jesus Christ is venerable to adherents of all religions. Efforts of our Christian Community for the socio-economic development of the motherland are commendable.
“I also take this opportunity to pay the highest tribute to the sacrifices made by our Christian brethren in Pakistan’s fight against terrorism,” the president said.
President Arif Alvi said that the government of Pakistan holds sacrosanct the equality and freedom of conscience of all citizens irrespective of belief, creed or religion. He said that our commitment to this fundamental principle is firmly grounded in the teachings of Islam, the vision of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the inviolable guarantees of our Constitution.
“We are committed to building a society that respects difference and finds strength in diversity; a nation that is tolerant and cohesive; and a state that provides equal rights and opportunities to all citizens.”
“We are proud of our Christian brethren; and together we are building a strong and prosperous Pakistan for our children,” the president said.
