Zardari and Sharif Reaffirm Commitment to Women’s Empowerment on International Women’s Day

ISLAMABAD: On Saturday, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed their commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in Pakistan. Both leaders marked International Women’s Day with messages emphasizing the pivotal role women play in shaping the future of the nation.

In their statements, Zardari and Sharif highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by women, including gender discrimination, violence, and economic barriers, and called for concerted efforts to address these issues. They reiterated the government’s dedication to promoting women’s rights through policy reforms, legal protections, and institutional support.

President Zardari praised the resilience and invaluable contributions of women to social development, stating, “Societies that ensure equal rights and opportunities for women are more prosperous and peaceful.” He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to upholding women’s rights in accordance with both constitutional guarantees and international obligations.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described women as the “builders of society” and “pillars of homes.” He acknowledged the significant strides women have made across various sectors, from education and healthcare to business and leadership. The Prime Minister stressed that empowering women is vital to Pakistan’s prosperity, declaring, “When we invest in women’s education, health, and economic freedom, we uplift entire generations.”

Sharif also underscored the importance of Islam’s teachings on women’s dignity and rights, calling for collective action to create an inclusive society where women’s full potential is realized. He noted that this year’s International Women’s Day theme—‘For all women and girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment’—serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to build a society where women are offered equal opportunities and treated with dignity.

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Both leaders urged the continuation of efforts to enhance women’s security, education, and economic independence. They concluded that the journey towards true gender equality in Pakistan must remain a priority, and progress must be made to ensure women are fully empowered and supported.