Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the ongoing violence in Gaza, lamenting that the upcoming Independence Day celebrations in Pakistan have been overshadowed by the atrocities being committed against Muslims in the region.
Speaking at a special ceremony in Lahore commemorating National Minorities Day, the premier highlighted the grave situation in Gaza, where Israeli forces have continued their aggression against Palestinians.
"The joy of our Independence Day has faded due to the barbaric actions being inflicted on our Muslim brothers and sisters in Gaza," he said, adding that the international community's silence on the matter was deeply concerning.
PM Shehbaz referenced the historical significance of August 11th, recalling the address made by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in 1947, where he emphasized equal rights for all citizens, regardless of their religion.
"Today, we are celebrating the contributions of minorities to Pakistan’s development. Our minority communities have played a pivotal role in the nation’s progress, and today's ceremony is a testament to their invaluable contributions," he remarked.
PM Sharif condemned the Israeli government and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing them of orchestrating systematic violence against Palestinians.
"Yesterday at dawn, innocent Muslims, including children, were martyred in brutal bombardments. These attacks continue unabated, yet the world remains a silent spectator," he said.
He criticized international organisations, ostensibly established to maintain peace, for their inaction. "Resolutions are passed, but they hold no weight as Israel’s aggression continues unchecked. History has not witnessed cruelty of this magnitude," he asserted.
Turning to the contributions of Pakistan's minority communities, the Prime Minister lauded the Christian, Hindu, Sikh, and Parsi communities for their dedication to the nation. He noted that millions of Pakistani youth have received education in Christian missionary schools over the past 77 years and acknowledged the significant roles that minorities have played in the judiciary, trade, and the country's overall development.
However, the premier also acknowledged the unfortunate incidents in Pakistan's history that have caused harm to minority communities.
"These incidents are a blot on our history, and we must ensure they are never repeated," he said, stressing the importance of continued efforts by both federal and provincial governments to protect the rights of minorities.
