Prime Minister Emphasizes Inclusion and Unity for All
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring the full inclusion of minorities in all aspects of Pakistani society, including government institutions, Parliament, and the national mainstream. His message on National Minorities Day, observed on August 11, highlighted the importance of protecting the rights of minorities and recognizing their vital contributions to the country’s development.
He stated, "Today, the entire nation, including me, is celebrating National Minorities Day to protect the rights of minorities and appreciate their key role in the country's development and progress." This sentiment reflects a broader vision of unity and shared responsibility among all citizens.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the government is guided by high religious and constitutional values, and it is committed to upholding religious freedom and equal rights for all. He referenced the historic speech of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on August 11, 1947, as an ideological guarantee for the secure future of minorities in Pakistan. He noted that the welfare and well-being of all minorities, whether they are Sikhs, Christians, Hindus, or Parsis, is a top priority for the government.
Pakistan recognizes the invaluable services rendered by minorities across various fields. Many individuals from minority communities have made significant sacrifices in the defense of the country. The Prime Minister paid tribute to these individuals, expressing pride in their patriotism, professional dedication, and connection to the national heritage and culture.
He also mentioned that minorities in Pakistan enjoy all political, economic, and social rights under the Constitution. Protecting these rights is not only a constitutional obligation but also a religious duty, as Islam emphasizes the protection of civil, religious, and social rights of minorities. Religious leaders play a crucial role in safeguarding these rights and maintaining the dignity of places of worship.
All Pakistanis, regardless of their background, need to embrace their national responsibilities by promoting unity, solidarity, mutual respect, and tolerance. The Prime Minister concluded by stating that all Pakistanis and the government reaffirm their resolve to fulfill their duties in a unified manner.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations with Azerbaijan
In a separate development, President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, called Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan's longstanding and consistent support on the Karabakh issue. The Prime Minister conveyed warm felicitations to President Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan on their country's historic Peace Agreement with Armenia.
He praised the visionary leadership of President Ilham Aliyev in ending a three-decade-old conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia, leading to a peaceful and mutually beneficial resolution that promises a new era of prosperity for the region. The Prime Minister reiterated that it has always been a duty for the people of Pakistan to support their Azerbaijani brothers and sisters on this core issue.
He acknowledged the positive role of former US President Donald Trump in facilitating the historic deal and appreciated him as a global peace maker. President Aliyev expressed gratitude for Pakistan's continued support and highlighted the potential for enhanced connectivity between Pakistan and Central Asia through regional peace.
Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the positive trajectory of bilateral cooperation and recalled their recent interactions in Lachin and Khankendi. The Prime Minister extended an invitation to President Aliyev for an official visit to Pakistan soon. They are expected to meet on the margins of the upcoming SCO Summit in Tianjin.
A Student's Journey of Achievement
Meanwhile, a talented student from Balochistan's Qila Saif Ullah, Ikram Ullah Kakar, met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. During the meeting, the Prime Minister appreciated Ikram Ullah Kakar for securing third position in the Rawalpindi Board's Matriculation Examinations. He commended his hard work and remarkable achievement.
Ikram Ullah Kakar had previously met the Prime Minister in 2022 during his visit to flood-affected Qila Saif Ullah, where his family had been severely impacted by the floods and was residing in a relief camp. During that meeting, he expressed his aspirations for higher education, and the PM promised to bear all the expenses for his education.
Shehbaz Sharif advised Ikram Ullah Kakar to pursue his studies further and aim for greater success in life. Ikram expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to study at the prestigious Lawrence College Murree and assured the Prime Minister that he would continue working hard to achieve even greater success.