ISLAMABAD: Meanwhile, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir joined the Christian community in celebrating Christmas at Rawalpindi’s St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral Church, underscoring the spirit of inclusivity and harmony.
COAS Asim Munir speaks at Rawalpindi’s St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral Church on the occasion of Christmas on Dec 25, 2024. — via APP
The congregation extended a warm welcome to the COAS, expressing gratitude for his presence and solidarity during this cherished occasion, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.
The army chief conveyed his heartfelt Christmas greetings to the Christian community across the nation, emphasising that the occasion “serves as a profound reminder of the universal values of compassion, generosity, and goodwill — principles that bind our diverse society together”.
“He further acknowledged the remarkable contributions of minorities and Christian community to Pakistan’s cultural, social, economic and national progress, which remain a source of pride and strength for the nation,” the ISPR said.
On the occasion, Gen Munir also paid a solemn tribute to the Founder of the Nation, highlighting Quaid’s “visionary leadership, unwavering determination, and steadfast adherence to the principles of Faith, Unity and Discipline”, which “not only paved the way for the creation of Pakistan but also provided a timeless blueprint for nation-building”.
The COAS remarked that Quaid-e-Azam’s enduring commitment to the ideals of freedom, equality, and religious tolerance “continued to inspire and guide the nation in addressing contemporary challenges, from safeguarding territorial integrity to fostering internal stability”.
“As we commemorate this festive season, let us reaffirm our collective resolve to transform Pakistan into the peaceful, prosperous nation envisioned by the Quaid,” COAS Munir concluded, urging all citizens to work tirelessly toward achieving this shared aspiration.
Quaid’s tireless efforts united our people: ISPR
The armed forces also paid “profound homage to the Father of the Nation” on his birthday, the military’s media affairs wing said.
On the “auspicious occasion”, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the services chiefs, and the armed forces honoured the “enduring vision and unparalleled leadership of Quaid-e-Azam”, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.
It added that Jinnah’s “tireless efforts united our people and established the foundation for a sovereign and independent Pakistan”. “On this day of national significance, we renew our unwavering commitment to his guiding principles of unity, faith, and discipline, which continue to inspire the nation,” the military said.
The armed forces also extended “heartfelt greetings to the Christian community on the joyous occasion of Christmas”. “In solidarity with our Christian brothers and sisters, we celebrate the universal values of love, compassion, and peace that this occasion represents,” the statement said.
The military said it remained “resolutely dedicated to safeguarding the nation and upholding the ideals of justice, equality, and harmony in the service of our people and our homeland”.
