PM, President honor women’s role in national development on Women’s Day

On International Women’s Day, Pakistan marked the occasion under the theme “Rights, Equality and Action: For All Women and Girls.” Across the country, leaders and citizens highlighted the vital role that women play in society.

As President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif observed this year’s celebration, they emphasized that no nation can achieve meaningful progress without the active participation of women. Both leaders paid tribute to Pakistani women, stressing their crucial roles in Pakistan’s development and progress. The president specifically noted that women have been instrumental, citing the example of Benazir Bhutto as a shining beacon of female leadership.

Recalling the words of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, President Zardari highlighted the importance of equal participation from all segments of society. He also stressed the contributions and struggles of leaders like Fatima Jinnah and Nusrat Bhutto, who continue to inspire women across the country. The president commended rural women for their service in agriculture and the national economy, underscoring that women are now serving in every field—ranging from aviation cockpits to parliamentary halls.

President Zardari further emphasized the need to eliminate discriminatory laws and harmful social practices that hinder women’s progress. He underscored that ensuring equal rights would help improve access to education, employment, and protection for all women. The president also stressed the importance of providing women with equal access to credit, property, and employment opportunities as a key component of sustainable development.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed these sentiments in his own tribute. He stated that protecting women’s rights is essential to ensuring sustainable national development and prosperity. The prime minister highlighted the transformative role Pakistani women play across various sectors, including education, healthcare, sports governance, and even within military institutions. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an environment where women can realize their full potential without discrimination or fear.

Through these messages, both leaders underscored Pakistan’s dedication to advancing gender equality and empowerment, reinforcing their commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all women across the country.