ISLAMABAD, Aug 18 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to uphold constitutional values and the highest ideals of humanity, both in times of peace and in moments of crisis. “We will continue to strive to ensure that vulnerable segments of society receive the protection and support they deserve and have opportunities to live with dignity,” the prime minister said in a message on the observance of the …
PM reaffirms Pakistan’s humanitarian values, pledges dignity for all
ISLAMABAD, Aug 18 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to uphold constitutional values and the highest ideals of humanity, both in times of peace and in moments of crisis.
“We will continue to strive to ensure that vulnerable segments of society receive the protection and support they deserve and have opportunities to live with dignity,” the prime minister said in a message on the observance of the Humanitarian Day on August 19.
He said on the Day, Pakistan joined the international community in reaffirming its commitment to the noble values of humanitarian service, compassion, human dignity and solidarity.
“Pakistan also pays tribute to all humanitarian workers, institutions and organizations that dedicate their lives to the higher cause of serving humanity and advancing human welfare,” PM Office Media Wing, in a press release, quoted the prime minister as saying.
He said the World Humanitarian Day was being observed every year in memory of the 22 humanitarian workers who lost their lives in the bombing of the United Nations compound in Baghdad, Iraq, in 2003. The day honoured the sacrifices,the courage and selflessness of humanitarian workers serving in the areas affected by crises and disasters, he added.
The prime minister said, “It is a matter of great pride for us that Pakistan is among those countries that have consistently demonstrated compassion for humanity at the international level and translated this commitment into meaningful action.”
Pakistan’s contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions had always been significant and commendable, he said, adding Pakistan had a long and proud tradition of standing in solidarity with and extending support to those in need within the international community.
“Our nation has demonstrated generosity, steadfastness and compassion through decades of hosting millions of Afghan refugees and providing assistance during humanitarian crises at the regional and global levels. This enduring spirit of humanity, hospitality and mutual support is a true reflection of our national character,” he added.
The prime minister observed that at the domestic level, their constitutional values and national traditions likewise embodied the humanitarian ethos.
He further stressed that the protection of the rights and dignity of vulnerable and marginalized segments of society remains among the foremost priorities of the Government of Pakistan.
Through effective measures, the Government is striving to build an inclusive, equitable and empowered society providing individual with equal access to opportunities without discrimination on the basis of colour or race, he added.
Over the past year, the prime minister noted that the Ministry of Human Rights had translated policy commitments into meaningful actions through a network of welfare centers, training institutions and protection facilities.
In this regard, the Ministry of Human Rights was undertaking measures to promote social inclusion of Special persons as well as to ensure their access to essential civic services and facilities, he added.
The prime minister further mentioned that the government was also taking special measures to promote women’s participation in the social and economic spheres, enabling the full potential of humanity to be harnessed without discrimination on the basis of gender.
At the grassroots level, he elaborated that the protection of vulnerable and marginalized segments of society, promotion of gender equality, protection of children and empowerment of young people are essential steps for advancing human rights, social justice and social welfare.
