Islamabad: In a ceremony commemorating Minorities’ Day, President Asif Ali Zardari called for greater facilitation and inclusivity for minorities in Pakistan, emphasizing adherence to the constitutional guarantees and the founding vision of the nation. He advocated for expanding the participation of minorities beyond the existing government quotas, highlighting their vital role in the country’s development.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, President Zardari’s address underscored the significance of minority contributions to Pakistan and critiqued the treatment of minorities in neighboring India. He reiterated the foundational values laid out by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, asserting that all Pakistani citizens, regardless of faith, should receive equal opportunities and protections.
Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, echoed the President’s sentiments at the event, asserting that the principles of brotherhood, equality, and justice are crucial for national unity and resilience. He reassured that the government is committed to ensuring the security of minorities and their places of worship as enshrined in the Constitution.
Representatives from various religious communities also spoke, expressing appreciation for the government’s efforts to safeguard minority rights and enhance their security within Pakistan.