ISLAMABAD - President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf have felicitated the Christian community on the eve of Christmas.
The President in his message on the occasion said, “On the auspicious occasion of Christmas, I extend heartiest greetings to our Christian brethren all over the world and in particular to those living in Pakistan.”
President Asif Ali Zardari said that Christmas is a time for celebration and also to reflect the message of Jesus Christ (May Allah be pleased with him), who brought the eternal message of love, peace and forgiveness.
President deeply admired contributions of Christian community in the development of the country. The nation is proud of their positive role for peace, progress and prosperity of country, he added. Offering Merry Christmas and a happy new year to Christian brothers, Prime Minister said,” On the auspicious occasion of Christmas I extend my heartiest greetings to the Christian Community the world over.
“Jesus Christ was the Messenger of God and a Messiah for the entire humanity. His message of love, brotherhood and peace is universally acknowledged”.
“Islam preaches equality of mankind, irrespective of cast or creed. The universal message of Islam and its principles are applicable to the entire humanity”.
Meanwhile, Dr Fehmida Mirza has extended warm felicitation to Christian Members of the parliament and the Christian community on eve of Christmas. She said that this day may bring bounties for the Christian community and peace and prosperity in the country.
She said that this day is celebrated as the birthday of Jesus Christ who was not only the prophet of   Christian community but also he was much more revered by the Muslims as we believe in  all the prophets of almighty Allah and their teachings were cradle for us.  Hazrat Essa (AS) advocated selfless services for humanity and preached the philosophy of non-violence, love, peace, tolerance and brotherhood.
Dr Fehmida Mirza also extended her appreciation to the Christian community for their deep sense of patriotism and dedicated services for the progress and prosperity of the country. Their unmatched contributions in the process of nation building, especially in the field of health and education were a glowing chapter of our national history, she said.
The Speaker reiterated that society would be purged of the menace of terrorism and militancy by following the Christ’s philosophy of non-violence, love and peace to face the current challenging situation in the country, she added.