ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world on the occasion of Diwali, declaring religious minorities an essential part of Pakistan’s national identity and reaffirming their commitment to protecting their rights.
In this regard, both leaders appreciated the Hindu community’s contributions to Pakistan’s social, cultural and economic development, emphasizing the importance of religious tolerance, national unity and peaceful coexistence.
President Asif Ali Zardari described Pakistan’s Hindu community as an integral part of national life, recognizing its valuable contributions to education, healthcare, business, public service, social welfare, arts and culture.
He emphasized that Pakistan belongs equally to all its citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.
The president said Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and hope over despair.
He also stressed that protecting religious minorities and ensuring equal citizenship were collective national responsibilities.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended warm wishes to Hindu families celebrating Diwali across Pakistan and internationally.
He acknowledged the community’s significant role in strengthening Pakistan’s economic, cultural and social progress.
The prime minister emphasized that Pakistan takes pride in its diverse religious and cultural traditions, describing them as valuable national assets.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the constitutional rights, dignity and religious freedoms of citizens without discrimination based on religion, ethnicity or background.
Both leaders highlighted the broader significance of Diwali, commonly known as the Festival of Lights.
They said the occasion represents hope, compassion, tolerance and the importance of maintaining peaceful relationships among communities.
The messages encouraged Pakistanis to respect religious differences, promote mutual understanding and strengthen social harmony.
They also focused on that cultural and religious diversity should be recognized as a source of national strength rather than division.
Government Calls for Inclusive and Peaceful Pakistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed that building a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive society requires collective efforts from all communities.
President Zardari similarly urged citizens to reject prejudice and discrimination while upholding the principles of equal citizenship envisioned by Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
ALSO READ: Ayatollah Khamenei’s martyrdom, a big announcement from the Pakistani Hindu community
Both leaders expressed hope that Diwali would bring happiness, peace and prosperity to Hindu families.
