Christian, Muslim communities bound by mutual trust, respect: Gilani
ISLAMABAD, Dec 23 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said on Thursday that common characteristics bind Christian and Muslim communities in an unbreakable relationship of mutual trust, respect and brotherhood. Speaking at a ceremony as part of Christmas celebrations at Fatima Church here, Prime Minister Gilani said the day highlights the sacrifices, teachings and exemplary character of Jesus Christ. “Believing in the prophethood of Jesus Christ and Bible as a Divine Book is part of our faith as Muslims.” he added. Gilani felicitated the Christian community around the world, especially those living in Pakistan on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan on the occasion of birth anniversary of Jesus Christ falling on 25 December. 
He said Jesus Christ was an exalted Prophet of God who brought with him the message of love, peace and compassion for humanity.
He said, “Jesus Christ advocated the noble causes of human equality, fraternity and solidarity. He chose to sacrifice his own life but refused to bow before the forces of oppression. The teachings of this revered Prophet of God continue to be as relevant today as they were at that time.”
Gilani said the threat to global peace and harmony comes from a handful of extremists who are bent on sowing the seeds of hatred.
These narrow-minded elements are misinterpreting the teachings of the great religions to promote their nefarious agendas, he said adding a handful of radicals with vested interests should not be allowed to play havoc with the future of succeeding generations.
He quoted the incident from the Islamic history illustrating the spirit of harmony and brotherhood between Islam and Christianity.
He recalled that once a 40-member Christian delegation from Nijran came to hold dialogue with the Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him). The Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him) treated them as his personal guests and made them stay in the Prophet’s Mosque.
“When the members of delegation enquired about the place to pray, the Prophet (Peace be upon him) allowed them to pray in the Prophet’s Mosque in accordance with their religious requirements,” the Prime Minister said adding, “the human history fails to offer any such example of tolerance, harmony and brotherhood.”
Gilani reminded that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, while addressing the first Constituent Assembly of Pakistan, declared the policy of equality, tolerance and social justice stating that people were free to go to their places of religious worship.
He said on his directives, the Ministry of Minorities has taken successful steps to promote interfaith harmony to bridge the gap among different faiths.
He paid tribute to the Pakistani Christian community for their valuable contribution to the national development.
“From defence to education, health to politics and social welfare, there is not a single walk of national life which does not have the representation and contribution of our Christian brethren,” he observed.
Prime Minister Gilani said all minorities in Pakistan enjoy equality of rights, religious freedom and security. These rights and privileges are constitutionally guaranteed. 
During its stints in power, the governments of Pakistan People’s Party formulated policies for the welfare and well-being of the minorities in Pakistan. 
He said the present government has considerably increased the budget of the Ministry to ensure progress of the minorities.
“We have also fixed a quota of 5% for the minorities for recruitment in the public sector. Similarly, we have also introduced reforms in other areas to enable the youths of minorities to stand on their feet,” he said. 
The Prime Minister directed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for allocation of land in Islamabad for the establishment of Interfaith Complex.
He also directed NAVTEC to establish skill development centers for minorities in Islamabad in coordination with the organizations concerned.
The Prime Minister along with church priests cut Christmas cut, gave cash to needy women and distributed gifts among children.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Minorities Shahbaz Bhatti highlighted efforts of the PPP government for protection and promotion of rights of minorities.
He said the government was committed to continue to take steps for the welfare of minorities.