RAWALPINDI/LAHORE (MNN); Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Thursday participated in Christmas celebrations, reaffirming the state’s commitment to religious harmony, inclusivity and the protection of minority rights.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Asim Munir attended Christmas celebrations at Christ Church in Rawalpindi, where he joined the Christian community in marking the festive occasion. Extending Christmas greetings, he conveyed best wishes for peace, harmony and prosperity to the Christian community.
Paying tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the army chief highlighted the founder of Pakistan’s vision of equality, freedom and religious tolerance, describing the protection of minority rights as a fundamental pillar of the country’s ideology.
Interacting with members of the congregation, Field Marshal Munir acknowledged the historic contributions of Pakistani Christians to national development and security, particularly their distinguished service in the Pakistan Armed Forces over generations.
He emphasised that Pakistan’s strength lies in interfaith harmony, mutual respect and unity, adding that equal opportunities and shared constitutional values transcend religion, ethnicity, caste and creed. He reaffirmed the Pakistan Armed Forces’ commitment to safeguarding the dignity, security and equal rights of all citizens as guaranteed by the Constitution.
Christian community leaders expressed gratitude to the army chief for his visit and appreciated the armed forces’ role in defending the country, promoting inclusivity and strengthening national unity.
Meanwhile, in Lahore, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced an increase in minority cards from 75,000 to 100,000, calling it a Christmas gift for the Christian community. Addressing a Christmas ceremony at the Cathedral Church, she congratulated Christians across the province and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to protect minority rights.
The chief minister said issues related to minority graveyards across Punjab would be resolved on a priority basis and warned that any injustice against minorities would be dealt with using the full authority of the state, stressing zero tolerance for discrimination or abuse.
She said Pakistan’s true strength lies in unity, adding that citizens should be recognised first and foremost as Pakistanis, not by religious identity. CM Maryam praised the Christian community’s role in national development and said her decisions were guided by principles of humanity and justice.
Referring to road safety regulations, she said helmet laws were enforced to protect lives but acknowledged the religious concerns of the Sikh community, noting that exemptions were granted after consultations with Sikh leaders.
During the ceremony, the chief minister also distributed minority cards and cheques for Christmas grants among members of the Christian community. Officials said these steps were part of the provincial government’s broader policy to enhance welfare, inclusion and protection of religious minorities.
