ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have conveyed their congratulations to the Pakistani nation and the broader Islamic world as they observe the beginning of the new Hijri year, 1448 AH. In their separate statements, the leaders emphasized the importance of tolerance, adherence to the rule of law, and national unity in driving Pakistan’s development and prosperity.

According to Radio Pakistan, President Zardari called on citizens to commit to fostering tolerance, love, brotherhood, and mutual respect, while steering clear of sectarianism. He highlighted the significance of the month of Muharram-ul-Haram, recalling the sacrifices made by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and the enduring lessons from the battle of Karbala.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed his delight over the peaceful resolution of the longstanding conflict between Iran and the United States, an event coinciding with the start of the Islamic year. He attributed this positive outcome to Pakistan’s dedicated peace-building efforts. The Prime Minister also encouraged the nation to embrace honesty, hard work, and mutual respect, reinforcing the pillars of national unity in both personal and collective spheres.