Nawaz Sharif... served two non-consecutive terms as prime minister, heads the Pakistain Moslem League (Nawaz). Noted for his spectacular corruption, the 1998 Pak nuclear test, border war with India, and for being tossed by General Musharraf...
on Tuesday extended their heartiest greetings to the Christian brethren all over the world and in particular to those living in Pakistain on Christmas being celebrated today (Wednesday).
In his message, the president said Christmas, the commemoration of birth of Jesus Christ, was an occasion to celebrate and rejoice.
"It is an occasion to revert to the message of Jesus Christ -- the eternal message of love, peace, tolerance and compassion for humanity. It is time to re-dedicate ourselves to these noble ideals and work individually as well as collectively for the betterment and welfare of humanity and to contribute our share in making the world a better place to live," he said.
The president said Jesus Christ showed people the path of virtuous living and urged them to turn to God for seeking divine mercy. "We, as Mohammedans deeply revere Jesus Christ as one of the great messengers of Allah Almighty. His teachings and his message of love and peace is as relevant to us as it is to our Christian brethren. Indeed, his message of love, compassion and sacrifice is relevant to the entire humanity," the president said. He reiterated that the government of Pakistain would continue undertaking every possible effort for the welfare and betterment of minorities in the country.
"In this pursuit, we are guided by the teachings of our religion, the vision of our forefathers and the dictates of our constitution that safeguards interests of minorities," he added.
President Mamnoon said the government would continue to fully protect and safeguard the rights and privileges enjoyed by the minority communities and would facilitate them in every possible manner to lead a prosperous life. He said that being equal citizens of state, the government would also continue facilitating minorities in availing all the opportunities for their welfare and contribute towards the national development process according to their abilities.