ISLAMABAD: Millions of Christians in Pakistan and across the globe are celebrating Christmas to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
In Pakistan, the Christian communities in major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Faisalabad, observe Christmas with church services, prayers, and communal gatherings.
Churches are decorated with Christmas trees and lights, and special prayers for peace, prosperity, and national well-being are offered.
Strict Security
Over 200 police officers have been deployed across Islamabad to ensure smooth traffic flow in the federal capital.
The police spokesperson said that traffic pickets have been established at various locations across the city in order to maintain the uninterrupted movement of vehicles.
In Punjab, police have made strict security arrangements to ensure peace and protection on Christmas and Quaid-e-Azam Day today.
According to a spokesperson for the Punjab Police, 30,000 police officers and personnel will be deployed to provide security for 3,583 churches across the province, including Lahore.
More than 5,000 police officers and personnel will provide security at more than 600 Christian places of worship in the provincial capital.
According to the Punjab Police spokesperson, 2,832 CCTV cameras will be installed to monitor sensitive churches, and 4,546 metal detectors will also be used for checking in churches.
More than 1,000 police personnel will be deployed for security of programs held on Quaid-e-Azam Day.
President PM Message
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed Christmas greetings to the Christian community of Pakistan and around the globe.
In his message, the President said, “The message of love and humanity that this season brings reminds us of the deep bonds that unite all people.”
The President mentioned the quote of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah that, “You are free; you are free to go to your temples. You are free to go to your mosques or any other place of worship in this State of Pakistan. You may belong to any religion, caste, or creed that has nothing to do with the business of the State.”
He noted that this event is a symbol of sympathy, peace, and hope.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly greeted the Christian community at the special occasion.
He prayed that the birth of Hazrat Isa (A.S) may bring stability, peace, and prosperity to the Christian community in Pakistan.
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