The President said he has no doubt that the Christian community will continue to play their positive role for peace, progress and prosperity of Pakistan. He said the equality of all citizens of the state has been enshrined in the Constitution and said Quaid-e-Azam made it clear in his address to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on August 11, 1947.
President Zardari said the democratic Government of Pakistan was committed to pursue policies aimed at creating greater harmony and cohesion between people of different faiths. "I wish to reiterate that we will continue to fight religious apartheid", the President said.
"Let it also be made clear that we will not permit the persecution of members of other faiths in the name of religion nor permit their hounding by misuse of laws and abuse of judicial processes". He felicitated the Christian community on the eve of Christmas and said, "I extend heartiest greetings to our Christian brethren all over the world and in particular to those living in Pakistan".
The President said Christmas was a time for celebration and rejoicing and also a time to reflect on the message of Jesus Christ (May Allah be pleased with Him), the eternal message of love, peace and forgiveness. "We as Muslims deeply revere Jesus Christ as one of the great messengers of Allah Almighty. His universal message of love and peace transcending race, colour and geographical boundaries holds great promise in today's world that has increasingly become bereft of tolerance, harmony and peace". The President said it was time of rededication to his teachings and to seek forgiveness for sins.