Govt of Pakistan stands committed to protect & promote human rights: President Alvi
ISLAMABAD, Dec 10 (SABAH): President Dr. Arif Alvi in his message on International Human Rights Day observed on Friday, has said the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees freedom to its citizens regardless of their caste, colour or creed.
President Dr. Arif Alvi said that the observance of International Human Rights Day signifies our commitment and firm resolve towards the promotion of human rights at all levels. Indeed, upholding human dignity, safeguarding human rights and ensuring human freedom and equality are some of the fundamental principles of our religion and the Constitution.
President Alvi said that this year’s Human Rights Day theme relates to ‘Equality’ and Article 1 of the UDHR – “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” The principles of equality and non-discrimination are at the hallmark of human rights. An approach based on equality, inclusiveness and non-discrimination reduces inequalities and helps achieve socio-economic development in the society.
He said that the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees freedom to its citizens regardless of their caste, colour or creed. The Government of Pakistan stands committed to protect and promote human rights and will continue making efforts to safeguard freedom, liberty, dignity and self-esteem of every citizen of the state. Cognizant of the need to accord greater attention towards protection of the vulnerable and marginalized segments of society, the Government is committed to make every possible effort to put in place effective legal, economic and social frameworks so as to ensure protection of human rights. It is encouraging to note that the government has taken various steps for the empowerment of youth, women and Persons with disabilities (PWDs). We need to put more efforts to facilitate PWDs, besides ensuring women’s rights to inheritance.
“I take this opportunity today to reiterate Pakistan’s commitment to support freedom struggle of people of Kashmir in Illegally Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). We express our deep concerns of continuous military lockdown, curfew and suppression of the basic human rights of more than 8 million Kashmiris in IIOJK. On this day, I call upon the international community to come forward and play their role for the protection of human rights of people of Illegally Indian Occupied Kashmir and their right to self-determination in accordance with the United Nations Charter and UN Security Council Resolutions” President Dr. Arif Alvi said.
“I also appreciate the UN agencies, non-governmental organizations and Media for their endeavors in supplementing the government’s efforts to create conducive environment for our people. May Allah bless us in this important Mission-Aameen!” President concluded the statement.