Embargoed: Not to be published, broadcast before April 5* President greets Christians on Easter

ISLAMABAD, Apr 04 (APP):President Asif Ali Zardari extended greetings to the Christian citizens in Pakistan and to Christian communities around the world on the occasion of Easter.

In a message on the occasion of Easter, he said, “This day carries a clear message of compassion, hope, renewal, rebirth, rejuvenation, redemption, and the triumph of life over death and good over evil.”

“In Pakistan, these values are not abstract. They are reflected in everyday life. Christian men and women serve in our schools, hospitals, public services and armed forces. Families mark this day through prayer and gathering, often alongside neighbours of different faiths. Their contribution is part of the normal functioning of our society, and it deserves recognition and respect,” he added.

“Pakistani Christians are regarded and respected for their contribution to the motherland. We still remember the historic role played by S. P. Singha, the Christian Speaker of the Punjab Assembly in the creation of Pakistan. Every Pakistani remembers the heroic role of Cecil Chaudhry during the 1965 war,” he added.

He commended the Pakistani Christian community for its continued role in national development, particularly in education, healthcare, national defence and social services.

“Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah set out a clear direction for the state, based on equality, freedom and security for all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity. These principles are embedded in the Constitution of Pakistan, which guarantees equal rights and protection to every citizen,” he noted.

He reaffirmed the state’s responsibility to ensure that all communities across Pakistan enjoy these rights in full.

“The government remains committed to protecting the life, property, honour and security of minority communities, and to supporting their welfare,” he added.

He said, “On this occasion, I encourage all citizens to act with restraint, respect and a sense of responsibility towards one another. A stable and strong society depends on how we treat each other in daily life, in our workplaces, in our neighbourhoods and in our institutions. ?I wish you all a blessed and joyous Easter.”