RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces and Staff of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited Christ Church in Rawalpindi and attended Christmas celebrations, a military statement said on Thursday.
According to the ISPR, the visit was marked by participation in prayers and interaction with members of the Christian community. Christmas greetings and wishes for peace, harmony and prosperity were conveyed.
Tribute was paid to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, with emphasis placed on his vision of equality, freedom and religious tolerance. Protection of minority rights was described as a core principle of Pakistan’s founding ideology, it added.
religion, ethnicity, caste and creed.
The COAS & CDF highlighted the contributions of Pakistani Christians to national development and security. Their service in the Pakistan Armed Forces across generations was acknowledged.
In his speech, Field Marshal stressed the importance of interfaith harmony, mutual respect and unity. Pakistan’s strength was described as rooted in diversity, equal opportunity and shared constitutional values beyond religion, ethnicity or creed.
Commitment to the dignity, security and equal rights of all citizens was reaffirmed by the Pakistan Armed Forces, in line with the Constitution, it said.
Christian community leaders expressed appreciation for the visit. The role of the armed forces in safeguarding national unity, inclusivity and religious harmony was acknowledged.
