Pakistan observes national minority day, vows to protect their rights

ISLAMABAD: On the National Minority Day, Saturday Aug. 11, the Pakistani leadership appreciated the contribution of religious minorities and vowed the equality and protection of the rights for minorities.
“August 11, is a special day in our national calendar, when we reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of Quaid-e-Azam (the founder of Pakistan) to continue strive for the protection of the rights of followers of all faiths and bring them into the mainstream of national life,” caretaker Prime Minister Nasir-ul Mulk said in his message.
He added: “History reveals that the Muslims always strived for the rights of minorities.
“Let us reiterate today that we will uphold the ideals of equal rights and complete freedom to every citizen to freely profess and practice his or her religion.” 
The prime minister said the Pakistani nation greatly appreciates and acknowledges the huge contributions made by our minorities toward the country’s socio-economic development. “Being equal citizens of Pakistan, we share our joys and sorrows jointly. The observance of this day reflects our national commitment to unite and to integrate people of all faiths in the national life.”
In a separate message President Mamnoon Hussain said Aug. 11 was the day to reiterate this national cause and renewal of political resolve.
He said several attempts had been made in the past to harm national unity by inciting communal differences, but he was satisfied that such unfortunate incidents were totally rejected by the minority community.
“This is the strength of Pakistani society, which has helped the State in eliminating such miscreant elements,” the president said.