ISLAMABAD: Extending New Year greetings to the people of Pakistan on Tuesday, Secretary of Women’s Parliamentary Caucus Dr Shahida Rehmani pledged continued commitment to gender empowerment.

Dr Shahida Rehmani’s greetings also extended to the global community, wishing for prosperity, peace and progress in 2025.

In her message, Dr Rehmani emphasised the Caucus’s continued dedication to advancing the rights and welfare of women and girls across the nation.

Reflecting on the achievements of the past year, she noted significant strides made in promoting gender equality.

She reaffirmed the Caucus’s ongoing commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society, particularly through legislative reforms, addressing

violence and discrimination, and empowering women to reach their full potential. “As we step into this New Year, our focus remains on building a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive,” Dr Rehmani said, adding that “together, we can continue to make progress towards gender equality and create lasting change”.

She concluded her message with a call for hope, resilience and unity, wishing all a joyful, safe and prosperous New Year.

Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also sent New Year felicitations, expressing optimism for 2025.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, extended warm New Year greetings to the nation, expressing confidence that 2025 would bring peace, progress and prosperity to Pakistan.

He expressed solidarity with the people of Palestine and Kashmir, urging the international community to address the ongoing human rights violations and support efforts for peace and self-determination in these regions.

He called on Pakistan’s citizens to offer special prayers for their oppressed brothers and sisters in these territories.

In his statement, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq highlighted the significance of the New Year as a moment for reflection and renewal, encouraging citizens to reaffirm their collective commitment to the country’s development.

He emphasised the importance of parliamentary democracy and governance in shaping the nation’s future and urged political parties to set aside differences in favour of dialogue and collaboration for the common good.

“The 2025 presents an opportunity for us to unite and work towards a stronger, more prosperous Pakistan,” Sardar Sadiq stated.

“Our shared efforts will help elevate the country on the global stage,” he said.

National Assembly Deputy SpeakerSyed Mir Ghulam Mustafa Shah also conveyed his congratulations to the nation on the eve of the New Year.

In his message, Mr Shah underscored the importance of unity and solidarity in ensuring the country’s stability and progress.

He called on citizens to work together in the coming year for the collective good of Pakistan.

“The strength of our Parliament and the spirit of unity will be vital in shaping the future of Pakistan,” Mr Shah said, adding that “may 2025 bring peace, growth, and blessings to all.”

Shah reiterated the Parliament’s commitment to passing meaningful legislation that addresses the concerns of the people and safeguards their rights, with the goal of fostering a better future for all.

Published in Dawn, January 1st, 2025