Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has extended his greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world on the occasion of Diwali, emphasizing the festival's significance as a symbol of the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. In his message, Zardari highlighted the importance of compassion, renewal, and the role of each individual in bringing light into the lives of others through kindness and understanding.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, Zardari acknowledged the integral contributions of Pakistan's Hindu community to various sectors such as education, healthcare, business, and the arts, underscoring that Pakistan belongs equally to all its citizens. He invoked the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah for a nation where faith, caste, or creed would not impede equal citizenship and rights, reaffirming the commitment to ensure that every citizen enjoys freedom of faith and equal protection under the law.

Zardari stressed the sacred national commitment to equal citizenship, a principle upheld by the Pakistan Peoples Party's tradition, and emphasized the importance of defending this promise without bias. He remarked that no Pakistani should feel the need to prove their belonging based on faith, asserting that the country's freedoms and future belong to all citizens.

The president also used the occasion of Diwali to call for the strengthening of unity among Pakistanis, advocating for shared celebrations, mutual support during difficult times, and the rejection of prejudice and discrimination. He highlighted the nation's diversity as a strength and emphasized the collective responsibility to protect the rights of religious minorities.

Concluding his message, Zardari extended good wishes to all those celebrating Diwali, expressing hope that the festival brings joy, comfort, and renewed hope for the year ahead.