PM reaffirms commitment to discrimination-free environment for women

• Premier Shehbaz pays tribute to women in Pakistan, across the world on Women’s Day

• Says equal opportunities for women key to national progress, saying govt prioritising education, financial inclusion, workplace safety

• Says this year’s theme ‘Rights, Justice and Action’ reflects global resolve to protect women

 ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday reaffirmed the government’s firm commitment to ensuring an environment where women can realise their full potential without discrimination or fear.

In a message issued on the occasion of International Women’s Day, observed on March 8, the prime minister paid tribute to women in Pakistan and across the world for their invaluable contributions to society.

“Today, on International Women’s Day, I express my tribute and goodwill to the women of Pakistan and around the world. In particular, I extend my greetings and congratulations to the women, mothers, sisters and daughters of Pakistan,” he said.

He noted that this year International Women’s Day is being observed under the theme “Rights, Justice, and Action: For All Women and Girls,” which reflects a strong global commitment to protecting women’s rights.

“Protecting women’s rights is a guarantee of sustainable development and national prosperity,” the prime minister said, adding that the overall development and progress of a nation could only be ensured through equal opportunities and meaningful participation of women in all spheres of life.

The prime minister said the hard work, determination, courage and valuable services of women in every field were a source of pride and strength for the nation.

“Women are the cornerstone not only of the family but also of a society and nation founded on positive values,” he remarked.

He highlighted that from education to sports, from homes to government institutions, the perseverance and achievements of Pakistani women were playing a transformative role in building a strong and prosperous country.

“From the positions of prime minister, speaker of the assembly and chief minister to the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, health, education, business and the armed forces, women have paved new paths for future generations,” he added.

The prime minister said Pakistan had enacted effective legislation for the legal protection of women’s rights, reflecting the country’s firm resolve to eliminate harassment and exploitation.

He said the government’s top priorities included ensuring access to quality education for women, promoting financial inclusion, supporting women entrepreneurs, ensuring workplace safety, and taking effective measures against harassment and violence.

“Let us all work together to create a society where every woman has equal opportunities to progress with dignity and respect, so that Pakistan can move towards a more just, developed and inclusive future,” the prime minister added.