President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have extended warm greetings on the occasion of Nowruz. Both leaders reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to promoting peace, religious harmony and regional stability.
In their separate messages, President Zardari and Prime Minister Sharif congratulated people celebrating Nowruz in Pakistan and across the region.
They described the festival as a symbol of spring, renewal, hope and prosperity, marking the beginning of a new season celebrated for centuries across Asia.
Diversity as national strength
President Zardari emphasized that Pakistan is a country of diverse cultures, religions and traditions. He said this diversity has long been part of national life and remains one of the country’s greatest strengths.
The president also expressed solidarity with people facing hardships in the region, noting that in some areas celebrating Nowruz, “the flowers of spring are covered in rubble and blood.”
He said the “smell of gunpowder has overpowered the fragrance of these flowers,” highlighting ongoing conflicts.
Special message for Afghanistan
Zardari extended special greetings to the people of Afghanistan, saying they have been suffering for a long time. He criticized what he termed an “illegitimate Taliban regime,” stating it has deprived people of basic freedoms, even on religious occasions.
He expressed hope that Nowruz would mark the end of their “long dark night” and bring peace, stability and hope.
PM stresses peace, intercultural harmony
Prime Minister Sharif also extended greetings, particularly to the Parsi community in Pakistan and people celebrating Nowruz worldwide. He said the festival carries a message of peace, love, friendship, harmony and solidarity among cultures.
The prime minister highlighted that Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees religious freedom and protects the rights of all citizens to practice their faith.
He noted that effective policy measures have been taken to promote religious tolerance and interfaith harmony.
Shehbaz added that protecting followers of all religions and preserving their heritage is a key responsibility of the government. He said the government is actively working with media, educational institutions, and religious leaders to foster understanding and coexistence.
Nowruz and Pakistan’s shared values
The prime minister concluded that Pakistan’s national identity aligns with the values of Nowruz, including respect for cultural diversity and peaceful coexistence.
Both leaders expressed hope that the arrival of spring would bring renewed peace and prosperity to all those celebrating the festival.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also extended his congratulations to those celebrating Nowruz in Pakistan and around the world. He described Nowruz as a beautiful reflection of renewal, hope, and harmony, adding that Pakistan’s true strength lies in its rich cultural diversity.
He also expressed hope that this Nowruz would bring happiness, prosperity, and new hope for everyone.
