ISLAMABAD - Prime Nawaz Sharif yesterday said the nation has to struggle collectively against extremism, intolerance, sectarianism and all kinds of prejudices.
He urged the nation to transform Pakistan into a model state with prevalence of peace, brotherhood, moderation, patience and protection to minorities’ rights.
The PM said the nation must seek guidance from the lifestyle and upright character of founding father Quaid-e-Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah.
In a message on the 139th birthday of the Quaid, he said the father of the nation positioned himself as a tall beacon of light by waging a long struggle in the freedom movement launched against subjugation.
“Quaid-e-Azam had taught us to follow the democratic norms as he himself led a life replete with untiring struggle within the confines of law and constitution,” he said.
The PM added, “He held that a sound democratic system based upon public aspirations could guarantee solidarity, prosperity and stability of Pakistan.”
Sharif said the young generation had always been the centre of expectation for Quaid-e-Azam, adding he hoped the youth of the country to equip themselves with better education and devote their energies for realization of the dream of their founding father.
“There can be no better tribute to the founding father than making Pakistan a prosperous, stable and eminent,” he said.
The Prime Minister said due to Quaid’s resolute leadership, the Muslims in the Sub-continent got united and achieved freedom after unprecedented sacrifices.
He said, “On the day, the nation should also recall Quaid’s message of unity, faith and discipline which helped in breaking the shackles of years long subjugation. Even today, this message also guarantees progress, prosperity and stability of Pakistan.”
Separately, Prime Minister Sharif said the present government would continue to safeguard the rights and privileges, enjoyed by all minorities.
“Being the equal citizens of the state, the government will empower them to use their abilities for national development, progress and prosperity. Our policies are geared towards creating harmony and cohesion amongst people of all faiths,” he said in his message on the occasion of Christmas being celebrated across the world today.
He expressed the confidence that the Christians would continue to play their due role in the development of Pakistan with complete dedication.
The Prime Minister also wished merry Christmas to the Christian community in Pakistan and all over the world.
He said Jesus Christ was sent to this world as a symbol of peace, brotherhood and respect for the entire humanity. “He not only healed the ailing humanity but preached the divine values of tolerance, love and compassion,” he added.
The Prime Minister said Christmas was a time for celebration and rejoicing for Christians all over the world.
“It is also time to reflect on the messages and teachings of Jesus Christ; the message of love, peace, tolerance and compassion for humanity. It is time of re-dedication to his teachings and to seek forgiveness for sins. We, as Muslims deeply revere Jesus Christ as one of the great messengers of Allah Almighty,” he said.
Nawaz Sharif said Pakistan’s constitution enshrined Quaid-e-Azam’s vision and safeguarded the legitimate interests of all minorities living in the country.
“The Quaid had, right from the first day of creation of Pakistan, unequivocally declared a policy of equality, freedom and security for all communities living in Pakistan irrespective of their religion, profession or ethnic origin,” the Prime Minister added.