Gender Equality
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed their commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women as they marked International Women’s Day on Saturday.
Both leaders emphasized the vital role of women in shaping the future of Pakistan and called for stronger efforts to address the challenges they face, including discrimination, violence, and economic barriers.
In their messages, the president and the prime minister underscored the government’s commitment to promoting women’s rights through policy interventions, legal reforms, and institutional support. They highlighted the necessity of ensuring equal opportunities for women to foster a more prosperous and progressive society.
President Zardari, in his statement, paid tribute to the resilience of women and their significant contributions to social and economic development. He noted that societies that uphold gender equality and provide women with equal rights tend to be more stable, peaceful, and prosperous.
Stressing Pakistan’s commitment to women’s rights, he assured that the government would continue to align its efforts with constitutional provisions and international obligations to safeguard and promote gender equality.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described women as the backbone of society, highlighting their contributions in diverse fields, from education and business to agriculture and defense. He noted that women have proven their capabilities in every sector and stressed that their empowerment is crucial for national progress.
“When we invest in women’s education, health, and economic freedom, we uplift entire generations,” he remarked, underscoring the long-term benefits of gender-inclusive policies.
The prime minister also referenced Islam’s teachings on women’s dignity and rights, urging the nation to work collectively towards building an inclusive society where women’s potential is fully realized. He called for continued efforts to create an environment in which women feel safe, have access to quality education, and enjoy financial independence.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, For all women and girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment, serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to ensure women have equal opportunities and a supportive environment to thrive.
Both leaders reaffirmed that achieving true gender equality requires ongoing efforts and collective action at all levels of society. They urged stakeholders across the country, including policymakers, civil society, and communities, to play their part in advancing women’s rights and ensuring their full participation in all aspects of life.
