It is a matter of pleasure that today
we are celebrating International Human Rights Day with the resolve to promote
and protect human rights at all levels. The day is a reminder to the
democratically conscious citizens to reiterate their commitment individually
and collectively to make renewed efforts to promote a culture of tolerance,
respect for human rights, diversity and pluralism.
Pakistan
is a responsible state fully cognizant of its international commitments and has
ratified various conventions to uphold the supremacy of human rights. Human
rights as enumerated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and adopted
by the United Nations in 1948 are rooted in the basic principles of Islam.
Upholding human dignity, safeguarding human rights and ensuring human freedom
and equality are fundamental principles of our religion.
The
Constitution of Islamic Republic 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
vulnerable and marginalized segments of society, the Government is endeavouring
to put in place effective legal, economic and social frameworks. In this
regard, I would like to commend the efforts of Ministry of Human Rights for its
interventions with regard to protection and promotion of human rights in the
country.
Today,
I call upon the relevant departments and organizations as well as each and
every individual to come forward and play a role for the noble cause of human
rights in the country. I commend the United Nations for observing this Day
globally and also pay homage to all those organizations and individuals who are
devoted to the cause of human rights. I hope that they will continue to pursue
this important mission with renewed zeal and spirit. May Allah bless us in this
noble cause- Ameen.
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not to be
published/telecasted/broadcasted by print/electronic media before “International Human Rights Day” i.e. 10th December, 2017.
