By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: In recognition of the exemplary services rendered by the civil administration and police in ensuring law and order and promoting interfaith harmony during Christmas and other religious occasions, a dignified interfaith ceremony was held at Swift Memorial Presbyterian Church, Gujranwala.
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During the ceremony, Commissioner Gujranwala Division Syed Naveed Haider Shirazi, senior officers of the district administration, and police officials were presented with special shields of appreciation for their outstanding efforts in maintaining peace and security.
The event was attended by Mufti Ashiq Hussain, Maulana Aasim Makhdoom, Pastor Arif Masih Siraj, Professor Shehzad Lawrence, concerned police officers, and a large number of members of the Christian community, reflecting a strong spirit of interfaith unity and harmony.
While conducting the proceedings, Rev. Dr. Majeed Abel appreciated the efforts of the district administration and police and stated that the peaceful environment ensured during Christmas and other religious festivals was a clear manifestation of their professionalism and dedication. He applauded the efforts if Punjab Government especially CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz for betterment and remarkable initiatives for Religious Minorities.
Addressing the ceremony, Commissioner Gujranwala Syed Naveed Haider Shirazi said that the Christian community has rendered invaluable services in the development of Pakistan, particularly in the fields of education, health, and social welfare, which are highly commendable. He added that religious harmony and mutual respect are the foundations of a peaceful and strong society. The district administration and police, he said, remain fully committed to ensuring the protection of life, property, and places of worship of followers of all religions.
He further stated that the Government of Punjab is taking practical steps to safeguard the rights of minorities and provide them with equal opportunities, and such initiatives will continue in the future.
Other speakers also reaffirmed their commitment to continue joint efforts for promoting peace, tolerance, and brotherhood in society and to further strengthen interfaith dialogue to eliminate hatred and intolerance.
The ceremony concluded with special prayers for national security, unity, and prosperity.
