ISLAMABAD, Dec 24: President Gen Pervez Musharraf felicitated Christian community on the eve of Christmas and wished them all happiness and prosperity.

The President, in his Christmas message, said: “On the auspicious occasion of Christmas, I extend heartiest greetings and felicitations to the Christian community all over the world and particularly in Pakistan, I wish them all happiness and prosperity.

“Prophet Jesus brought the message of love, peace and harmony. He showed us the path of virtuous living. The best tribute to Prophet Jesus would be to inculcate and practice the spirit of peace, love and brotherhood, which are common to not only Christianity and Islam, but also all religions of the world.

“While wishing Happy Christmas, I would like to reiterate the firm commitment of the Government to uphold

and protect the rights and privileges of all minorities, as enshrined in our constitution. Islam enjoins upon its followers to regard the life, property and honour of non-Muslims equally sacred.

“I take this opportunity to place on record my appreciation of the patriotism, devoted services and contribution by the Christian community for the betterment of Pakistan. I once again wish them a very happy Christmas and New Year”.