ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have praised the services of Pakistani women and made it clear that no nation can progress without the participation of women.
The special theme of International Women’s Day this year is “Rights, Justice and Action: For All Women and Girls”. This theme actually reflects the firm resolve to protect women’s rights.
Message from the President
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, President Asif Ali Zardari said in his message that the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, had declared the equal participation of women as indispensable for the development of the country.
He said that the leadership skills of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto are a shining example of the strong determination of Pakistani women. According to the President, the services of women from the cockpit of an airplane to the country’s parliament are highly commendable.
The President further said that the long struggle of Mother of the Nation, Fatima Jinnah, and Begum Nusrat Bhutto is a beacon of light for all women. He said that women’s representation in parliament and provincial assemblies has been ensured through various constitutional measures; however, there is still a need to eliminate discriminatory laws and harmful attitudes in society.
President Asif Zardari emphasized that only by getting equal rights can women’s education, employment, and protection be possible. Referring to rural women, he said that they are playing a very important role in agriculture and the economy.
Pakistan is bound by international agreements to eliminate all kinds of discrimination against women, and they must be given equal access to credit, property, and employment, because real progress can be measured only by the practical improvement in the lives of women.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s message
In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to women around the world, including Pakistan, and expressed his goodwill towards them. He especially congratulated the mothers, sisters, and daughters of Pakistan on this day.
The Prime Minister said that the protection of women’s rights is the real guarantee of the country’s sustainable development and national prosperity.
According to him, the nation can prosper only when women are provided with equal opportunities and meaningful participation. He said that the hard work, courage, and services of women in every field of life are a source of pride and strength for the entire nation.
Shehbaz Sharif further said that women play a key role in the positive foundations of not only a family but also the entire society and the nation. From education, sports, household responsibilities, to running the government, the achievements of Pakistani women are playing a revolutionary role in building a prosperous country.
From the Prime Minister, Speaker, Chief Ministers, Judiciary, Police, Health, Education, Business, and Armed Forces, women have carved their own niche and paved the way for future generations.
The Prime Minister reiterated the commitment that the Government of Pakistan will provide an environment where women can fully utilize their potential without any fear or discrimination.
