CM Maryam vows peaceful, inclusive Punjab on Global Day of Living Together in Peace

• Punjab CM says peaceful, united society remains core government vision, asserting Punjab’s identity strengthened as peace-loving region during global crisis

• Stresses every citizen to enjoy equal rights, dignity and protection, terming extremism in all forms termed threat to social harmony and coexistence

• Expresses grief over death of veteran journalist Altaf Hussain Qureshi

 LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Saturday said that the creation of a peaceful, harmonious, united and cohesive society remained the core essence of her government’s vision, reaffirming that the Punjab administration was firmly committed to building a society rooted in peace, tolerance and mutual respect.

In her special message on the International Day of Living Together in Peace, the chief minister said Pakistan had further strengthened its identity as a peace-loving nation during recent global challenges and had played a constructive role in promoting peace and prosperity worldwide. “Pakistan’s recognition as a peace-loving country across the world is a matter of pride for every Pakistani,” she added.

She reiterated that the formation of a peaceful, harmonious and inclusive society was central to the government’s agenda, stressing that Punjab remained fully committed to strengthening social cohesion through tolerance and understanding.

“By the grace of Allah Almighty, the law and order situation in Punjab is exemplary and significantly improved compared to the past,” she said, adding that every citizen of the province, regardless of colour, creed, religion or background, had the right to live a dignified and peaceful life free from discrimination.

Maryam Nawaz said that linguistic, sectarian, social and cultural divisions posed a serious threat to peaceful coexistence, emphasising that the complete elimination of ideological and practical extremism was essential for sustaining harmony in society.

She further said that efforts to ensure the safety and empowerment of women were also aimed at strengthening peaceful coexistence, adding that legal and institutional reforms were being introduced to eliminate violence and injustice from society.

The chief minister said the government’s resolve to build a peaceful society in line with the teachings of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah remained unwavering, adding that the youth had a vital role in promoting values of peace, tolerance and unity.

She said every citizen of Pakistan was capable of living with dignity, peace and mutual respect, adding that police and other institutions were being equipped with modern training and resources to further strengthen public confidence and the sense of security in Punjab.

“Achieving 100 per cent peace is our goal, and we are committed to providing all necessary resources to maintain law and order,” she added.

 Condolence message:

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed deep grief over the passing of veteran journalist and editor of Urdu Digest, Altaf Hussain Qureshi.

In her condolence message, she extended heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family and paid tribute to his journalistic services, describing them as unforgettable.

She said Altaf Hussain Qureshi was a distinguished writer, prose stylist and columnist, adding that his absence in Urdu journalism would be felt for a long time.