ISLAMABAD, Dec 17 (APP): Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar underlined the vital need to strengthen inter-faith harmony on Wednesday, calling for the promotion of commonalities between the Muslim and Christian faiths to foster national unity.
Addressing a Christmas celebration ceremony in the National Press Club, the minister lauded the remarkable services rendered by the Christian community toward the welfare and development of Pakistan.
He commended the community for excelling in diverse fields and reaffirmed his enduring personal and professional ties with them.
“We must promote harmony by highlighting our commonalities,” the minister said, emphasizing that both Muslims and Christians revere the Almighty’s Messenger, Hazrat Isa (AS), and draw profound lessons from his teachings of peace and compassion.
He added that Pakistan must continue to serve as a “cradle of peace” through collective efforts toward national security.
He appreciated the patriotism of the Christian community, noting their deep love for the nation’s Armed Forces and their significant sacrifices for the country’s peace.
“When the body of a martyr is wrapped in the flag of Pakistan, it serves as a sign of ultimate respect regardless of race or religion. The sacrifices made by the Christian community for this soil will always be remembered,” he remarked.
The minister noted the significance of December 25th, which marks both Christmas and the birth anniversary of Pakistan’s founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
He announced that the Ministry of Information would fully participate in these celebrations.
Appreciating the initiative of the National Press Club, he said “I will inaugurate two Christmas bazars in my constituency as well. We will decorate in vibrant manner especially by placing big Christmas trees which are integral part of our Christmas celebrations.
To this end, he urged the ministry to hold a festival here in a press club, which will not only be enjoyed by the people, but will also have a vibrancy on the media.
He appreciated the Christian education system in Pakistan, mentioning the proud, the alumni of Forman Christian college took in studying from there.
He looked forward to see the restoration of glory of such institutions by having Christian board of directors for them.
A large number of media community took part in the celebrations which was also graced by Principal Information Officer Mubashir Hassan and Managing Director Associated Press of Pakistan, Muhammad Asim Khichi.