• Zardari says Christmas promotes love and service to humanity
• Shehbaz highlights the teachings of Jesus Christ
• CDF attends Christmas celebrations in Rawalpindi

ISLAMABAD: Pre­si­d­e­nt Asif Ali Zardari has extended warm greetings and best wishes to Chri­st­ians in Pakistan and across the world on the occasion of Christmas while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s firm commitment to safeguarding the constitutional rights of minorities.

In his message, Pre­si­d­ent Zardari said Christmas was a time of hope, peace and compassion. The message of love and service to humanity that the season brings reminds us of the deep bonds that unite all people.

PM’s message

Meanwhile, addressing a Christmas ceremony at the Prime Minister’s Office, PM Shehbaz highlighted the teachings of Jesus Christ, describing him as a symbol of peace, compassion, and service to humanity.

He paid rich tribute to the Christian community’s historic and ongoing contributions to Pakistan’s development, particularly in the fields of education, healthcare, defence and the justice system.

He specifically acknowledged Justice A.R. Cornelius, former chief justice of Pakistan, for his exemplary role in strengthening the country’s judicial system; Air Commodore Cecil Chaudhry (Shaheed) for his valour and services in the defence of Pakistan; and Dr. Ruth Pfau for her extraordinary humanitarian work in healthcare, esp­ecially her lifelong fight against leprosy in the country.

The PM also recalled the sacrifice of Haroon William (Shaheed), noting that Christian citizens have laid down their lives for the defence of the country.

CDF joins celebrations

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir attended the Christmas celebrations at Christ Church in Rawa­l­pindi, joining the Christian community in commemorating the joyous occasion.

He extended heartfelt Christmas greetings and best wishes for peace, harmony, and prosperity to the community.

Published in Dawn, December 26th, 2025