President Urges interfaith Dialogue; vows to Protect Minorities’ rights

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ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has emphasized the need for interfaith dialogue and harmony among people belonging to different religion and said the government would protect the rights of minorities in the country.

In his message to the Christian community all over the world and particularly in Pakistan, President Zardari said the need for dialogue and understanding was never been as much before.

He felicitated the Christians in Pakistan and said it was the time for festivity, celebration and rejoicing.

“It is also a reminder to all of us of the teachings of Jesus Christ (May Allah be pleased with him) who spread the message of love, forgiveness and brotherhood among the people without any prejudice and discrimination,” he said.

President Zardari reiterated the government’s commitment to continue fighting for the rights of all minorities including Christians and deprived people in the country for establishing a liberal and pluralistic society.

“Let me also reiterate on this occasion the pledge made by the government that it will continue to uphold the right of the Christians, indeed of all minorities, to be treated as equal citizens of the state and allowed to partake in its development on an equal footing,” President Zardari said.

He said such efforts would create a society where every citizen is allowed to participate freely in the social, political and economic development irrespective of his cast, creed and colour.

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