Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has paid deepest heartfelt tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and expressed all Christians around the world a Merry Christmas. In a message on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Christmas, he said that today, we commemorate the birth anniversary of Father of the Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and celebrate the joyous festival of Christmas with our Christian friends world over.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Deputy Prime Minister said that this shared occasion reflects the inclusive vision and moral foundations upon which Pakistan was established. He highlighted that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was not only the architect of independence but a statesman of unwavering principles and exceptional clarity. Jinnah envisioned Pakistan as a democratic state, functioning on the principles of equality, pluralism, and respect for fundamental rights of all citizens, without distinction of religion, race, or ethnicity.

In his historic address of 11 August 1947, Jinnah categorically affirmed that the state would make no distinction between one citizen and another. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the commitment to protect minority rights, equality, and religious freedom remains a cornerstone of the Constitution and national ethos. Ishaq Dar extended warm Christmas greetings to the Christian community, reaffirming commitment to religious freedom, equality, and pluralism, as envisioned by the founding fathers and reflected in the Constitution.

The Deputy Prime Minister acknowledged that Christian fellow citizens have made invaluable contributions to Pakistan’s development in education, healthcare, public service, and national defense by serving the nation with dedication, patriotism, and honor. He noted that Christmas embodies universal values of peace, compassion, sacrifice, and love for humanity, which resonate deeply with Islamic teachings and the ideals envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam.

Ishaq Dar concluded by stating that at a time when the world faces polarization and intolerance, Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to pluralism, interfaith harmony, and peaceful coexistence. He expressed that diversity is a source of pride and strength, and as the nation honors the legacy of Quaid-e-Azam and celebrates Christmas, it must carry forward his message of peace and goodwill, today and always.