Islamabad: Speaker of the National Assembly, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, has declared that the empowerment of women is crucial for Pakistan’s development and prosperity. Emphasizing women’s active role in society, he highlighted the importance of equal opportunities in achieving a stable and progressive nation.

According to a statement by National Assembly of Pakistan, the Speaker acknowledged the vital roles women play in various sectors, including politics, healthcare, and technology. These contributions have bolstered Pakistan’s international reputation and domestic growth, he noted. The remarks were made on National Women’s Day, celebrated annually on February 12 throughout the country.

The Speaker also paid tribute to historical female figures who contributed to Pakistan’s independence, such as Fatima Jinnah and Begum Ra’na Liaquat Ali Khan. He recognized the ongoing impact of women in Pakistan’s democratic and developmental processes, citing the achievements of leaders like Benazir Bhutto and Maryam Nawaz.

In his address, Ayaz Sadiq emphasized the necessity of policies protecting women’s rights, focusing on education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. He reiterated that societal advancement is tied to women’s development, echoing Quaid-e-Azam’s vision of gender equality.

The Speaker assured that Parliament is committed to effective legislation supporting women’s rights, highlighting existing laws on inheritance, harassment, and welfare. The establishment of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus and the Gender Mainstreaming Committee illustrates this commitment to gender equality and women’s issues.

Deputy Speaker Syed Mir Ghulam Mustafa Shah also spoke on National Women’s Day, stressing the need for institutional efforts to overcome challenges faced by women. He noted that women’s representation in Parliament is crucial for democratic health and highlighted Benazir Bhutto’s historic role as a symbol of women’s potential when given equal opportunities.

The Deputy Speaker reiterated the government’s commitment, alongside Parliament, to advance women’s empowerment and address their challenges through tangible actions.