ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: In his message on Christmas, President Dr. Arif Alvi has paid rich tribute to the sacrifices made by Pakistani Christians in Country’s fight against terrorism.
“I extend my warmest greetings to our Christian brethren all over the world particularly Pakistan on the joyous occasion of Christmas,” the president said on Christmas being Celebrated around the world including in Pakistan on Tuesday.
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.
Dr. Arif Alvi said that Jesus Christ brought and preached the message of peace, brotherhood and love for the whole humanity. Jesus Christ the guided people towards virtuous living and urged them to seek Divine mercy, the president said.
“As a Divine Messenger, Jesus Christ is venerable to adherents of all religions especially Islam. On this auspicious occasion, I would like to commend the sincere efforts of our Christian Community for the socio-economic development of our country,” President Arif Alvi said.
The president also said that the government of Pakistan holds sacrosanct the principle of equal rights and freedom for all citizens irrespective of belief, creed or religion.
Arif Alvi said that our commitment to these fundamental principles is firmly based on the teachings of Islam, vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and 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,” the president said.
“We are proud of our Christian brethren; they are an integral part of our multicultural polity; and together we are building a strong and prosperous Pakistan, for ourselves and our children. May the blessings of Allah Almighty be with us all,” the concluded.
