Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday extended Diwali greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world, reiterated his government’s commitment to providing equal rights and opportunities for progress to all communities, irrespective of their beliefs.

The prime minister, in his message on Diwali being celebrated today, said that the “festival of lights” reflected the light prevailing over darkness and hope over despair.

“As we celebrate Diwali, let us collectively look toward a future filled with positivity and unity. As Pakistanis, we take pride in the diversity of our society, which strengthens our national fabric and enriches our shared culture,” he remarked.

Calling the diversity of faiths a true source of unity, Prime Minister Shehbaz appreciated the invaluable contributions of the Hindu community in Pakistan, saying that their role in the country’s social, economic, and political spheres continued to strengthen the nation.

He expressed his pleasure over Pakistanis from Hindu and other minority communities working shoulder to shoulder with their Muslim countrymen for the progress of our country.

He said that the government was resolved to uphold the values of the founder of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who had envisioned a Pakistan with all communities enjoying equality and freedom, regardless of religion, race, or caste.

Concluding his message with “Happy Diwali,” the prime minister prayed that the “festival of lights” bring peace and prosperity to the lives of the Hindu community and foster unity and brotherhood among people of all faiths in the country.