Government Committed to Protecting Human Rights for All Communities: PM
— December 10, 2024
ISLAMABAD (AIA) Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed the government’s dedication to providing equal opportunities for all communities in Pakistan, ensuring the protection of basic human rights.
Speaking at a ceremony marking International Human Rights Day, the prime minister underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and empowering vulnerable communities under challenging circumstances. “All communities living in Pakistan enjoy equal rights,” the prime minister stated. “It is our priority, and the government is committed to providing opportunities to all on an equal basis.”
Reflecting on the principles of human rights and equality established 1,400 years ago by Islam and the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), the prime minister also cited Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s historic 11 August speech, which emphasised equal rights for all citizens regardless of creed, caste, or religion. Shehbaz Sharif called for collective efforts to address challenges and create a brighter future for the nation. “It is a long journey to traverse,” he said, adding, “With collective efforts, we should move ahead, resolve issues, and carve out a way forward for future generations.”
Recounting his tenure as Punjab’s chief minister, the prime minister highlighted initiatives that benefitted citizens across Pakistan, including the Punjab Endowment Fund, scholarships, and merit-based laptop distributions. These initiatives extended to all provinces, including Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
He also referenced his efforts to end child labour at brick kilns, enrolling 90,000 children in schools, and establishing the Violence Against Women Centre in Multan.
Recently, the federal government facilitated 1,000 graduates from across the country, including Gilgit Baltistan, to pursue advanced technical education in China, the prime minister added.