Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have committed to creating an environment conducive to women’s empowerment in Pakistan, as highlighted in their messages for International Women’s Day. According to Radio Pakistan, both leaders paid tribute to women globally and emphasized the pivotal role women play in national development.

President Zardari noted the government’s efforts to increase access to education and healthcare for women, enhance economic opportunities, and improve protection against violence. He highlighted constitutional provisions that ensure women’s representation in Parliament and provincial assemblies.

Prime Minister Sharif remarked that national prosperity is contingent on offering women equal opportunities and meaningful participation. On the social media platform X, Sharif reiterated the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment as central to Pakistan’s development, acknowledging their resilience and contributions across all sectors.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also underscored Pakistan’s dedication to advancing women’s rights and empowerment. He highlighted Pakistan’s role as a State Party to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and mentioned ongoing legislative and policy reforms to bolster women’s leadership.

Dar announced Pakistan’s hosting of the 9th Ministerial Conference on Women of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) this year. He reaffirmed the nation’s advocacy for the rights of women and girls in conflict zones, including Kashmir and Palestine, emphasizing the need for gender-sensitive governance and sustainable peace.