Army chief lauds Pakistani Christians’ role in national security

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, praised the long-standing contributions of Pakistani Christians to national development and security during Christmas celebrations at Christ Church in Rawalpindi on Thursday.

Addressing the congregation, the army chief highlighted the community’s service in the Pakistan Armed Forces over generations, calling it a source of national pride. He also extended warm Christmas greetings and called for peace, harmony and mutual respect across all segments of society.

Field Marshal Munir paid tribute to Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, noting his vision of equality, freedom and religious tolerance, and reaffirmed that protecting minority rights remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s ideology.

Emphasizing interfaith harmony, he said the country’s strength lies in its diversity and shared constitutional values that transcend religion, ethnicity, caste and creed. He reiterated the armed forces’ commitment to safeguarding the dignity, security and equal rights of all citizens.

Community leaders welcomed the army chief’s visit, commending the military’s role in promoting inclusivity, religious tolerance and national unity.

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif pledged to protect minority rights and promote interfaith harmony as Christians across Pakistan celebrated Christmas, one of the most important dates on the Christian calendar. Sharif said safeguarding religious freedom and equal rights for all citizens, particularly minorities, remained a key priority for his government.

Globally, millions of Christians observe December 25 as the birth of Jesus Christ, marked by religious services, family gatherings and cultural festivities. In Pakistan, the community celebrates by decorating churches and homes, distributing gifts, singing carols and hosting communal meals.