Message from Asif Ali Zardari President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
On the Occasion of Minorities Day – 11 August
Islamabad : Today, as we observe Minorities Day, we reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding and advancing the rights of minorities. This day reflects Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s vision of a Pakistan where every citizen lives in equality, harmony, and mutual respect.
It is also an occasion to acknowledge the contributions of our minority communities to nation-building. They have served the country with dedication in the armed forces, judiciary, civil services, education and healthcare.
Their patriotism and service remain a source of pride for the entire nation.
The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan guarantees equal rights to all citizens, irrespective of religion, caste, creed, or colour. It safeguards the legitimate interests of minorities, ensuring their political, economic, religious,social, and cultural rights.
Pakistan stands resolutely against all forms of discrimination, extremism, and religious intolerance. We remain determined to build a society free from prejudice—one that embraces diversity as a strength and is anchored in mutual respect, interfaith harmony, and shared progress.
Pakistan has taken a number of measures for the welfare and empowerment of minorities. These include the establishment of the National Commission for Minorities, allocation of Minorities Welfare Fund, restoration and preservation of places of worship and provision of scholarships and financial assistance to minority students.In 2009, during my first tenure as President of Pakistan, the government declared 11th August as Minorities Day to reaffirm our national commitment to equality, inclusion, and the recognition of minority rights. We continue to promote interfaith dialogue and ensure meaningful participation of minorities in every sphere of national life.
On this day, we renew our resolve to work for the empowerment and advancement of minority communities. We will continue our efforts to promote interfaith harmony, brotherhood, and unity to build an inclusive and prosperous Pakistan.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
