ISLAMABAD, Dec 24: President General Pervez Musharraf has greeted the Christian community the world over, including Pakistan, on Christmas and stated that all rights of minorities are fully protected in the country. In his message of greeting, the president reiterated his government’s resolve to continue working towards greater harmony among all communities and protecting the rights and liberties of minorities in Pakistan.

“On the joyous occasion of Christmas, the birth anniversary of Prophet Jesus (AS), on behalf of the Pakistani nation, I would like to extend greetings to the Christian community the world over and in Pakistan.

“May this Christmas and the coming New Year bring peace, prosperity and happiness to all,” he said, wishing them a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

The people of Pakistan deeply value the tremendous contribution made by the Christian community in all fields of endeavour, particularly in education and medicine, he said.

In his separate message, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said the government, in pursuit of its policy of enlightened moderation, was committed to creating a congenial environment in the country where all the communities could lead their lives according to their faith.

He extended his heartiest greetings and felicitations to the Christian community all over the world and especially in Pakistan.

The prime minister said: “Prophet Jesus Christ brought an abiding message of love, peace and compassion for humanity. Today, the strife-torn world badly needs to act upon that message. This would indeed be the best tribute to Prophet Jesus.”—APP