Chairman Bilawal and ambassador Zaidong discussed promotion of bilateral relations, social and cultural cooperation and also discussed matters of mutual interests.
The former minister for foreign affairs, Hina Rabbani Khar was also present at the occasion.
President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday congratulated the Pakistan Blind Cricket team on winning the fourth Blind T20 World Cup by defeating Bangladesh by 10 wickets. Lauding the players for showing a fabulous game, the president congratulated the team for clinching the World Cup on the day when the world was observing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. He said the PWDs had the potential to achieve excellence in sports and by winning the World Cup, the Pakistan Blind Cricket team brought fame to the country. President Zardari emphasised increased inclusion of the PWDs in all sectors including sports and providing them opportunities and resources to thrive. He congratulated the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council for successfully holding the tournament and expressed his good wishes for the bright future of the Pakistan Blind Cricket team.
Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable society for persons with disabilities (PWDs) on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Endorsing the 2024 theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” he emphasized the importance of recognizing the leadership and contributions of PWDs in building a better Pakistan.
In a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP highlighted that his party has always been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, including persons with disabilities. “From ensuring job quotas to implementing inclusive education policies, we have consistently worked to empower PWDs and integrate them as equal contributors to society,” he stated.
Chairman PPP emphasized that providing equal opportunities and access to public infrastructure, healthcare, and education for PWDs is not just a legal obligation but a moral duty of any progressive society. “We need to dismantle societal prejudices and stereotypes that perpetuate inequality and foster an environment where every individual can thrive,” he added.
He endorsed the 2024 theme, asserting that persons with disabilities must not only be included in decision-making processes but also be empowered to lead efforts for a sustainable future. “Their leadership is pivotal to achieving a truly inclusive Pakistan,” he remarked.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari made special mention of the Sindh Persons with Disabilities Empowerment Act 2018, calling it a landmark legislation for the rights of persons with disabilities. He urged the federal and other provincial governments to strengthen the implementation of disability rights legislation and learn from Sindh’s example to ensure Pakistan moves towards a more inclusive future in line with international commitments such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari concluded by reiterating that the Pakistan Peoples Party remains steadfast in its mission to champion inclusivity, equality, and dignity for all citizens, leaving no one behind.
Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has extended warm greetings to the people of Sindh and all Pakistanis celebrating Sindhi Culture Day, a day that highlights the province’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and timeless values.
In a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP emphasized that Sindhi Culture Day reflects Sindh’s enduring legacy of harmony, tolerance, and inclusivity. “Sindh, the land of Sufi saints, has been a beacon of peace, coexistence, and love for centuries. Its message of unity continues to inspire generations,” he stated.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari highlighted the cultural significance of the Ajrak and Sindhi Topi, describing them as emblems of Sindh’s identity and values, symbolizing respect, dignity, and pride. He stressed the importance of preserving and promoting Sindhi culture, which remains a vital component of Pakistan’s diverse and colorful heritage.
He called on the people of Sindh to honor this day by embracing the teachings of great Sufi saints like Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, Sachal Sarmast, and Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, whose messages of love, humanity, and peace form the core of Sindh’s identity. The Chairman reaffirmed the PPP’s commitment to protecting Sindh’s cultural legacy and ensuring its traditions thrive in the face of modern challenges.
Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has warmly congratulated party workers, supporters, and the people of Pakistan on the occasion of PPP’s Foundation Day, celebrating 57 years of unwavering dedication to democracy, social justice, and the empowerment of the people.
In a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP highlighted the enduring legacy of Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who founded the PPP on November 30, 1967, with a vision of establishing an egalitarian society rooted in equality, human rights, and economic prosperity. He also paid glowing tribute to the sacrifices of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who championed democracy with unmatched courage and inspired millions with her relentless dedication.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasized the PPP’s pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s history. Under the visionary leadership of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the party gifted the nation its first democratic constitution in 1973, ensuring equal rights and representation for all citizens. It was also Quaid-e-Awam who initiated Pakistan’s nuclear program, cementing the country’s defense capabilities. The PPP pioneered groundbreaking reforms in land redistribution, labor rights, and education, laying the foundation for social progress. Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the first woman to lead a Muslim-majority nation, not only strengthened democracy but also empowered women, advanced social welfare, and led efforts in developing cruise missile technology. During President Asif Ali Zardari’s first tenure, the PPP government reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to equity by solidifying provincial autonomy through the landmark 18th Amendment and launching the transformative Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), a lifeline that has since uplifted millions of underprivileged citizens.
“The Pakistan Peoples Party has always been the voice of the marginalized, the defender of workers’ and peasants’ rights, and a staunch advocate for the empowerment of women and minorities. Since its inception, the PPP has remained steadfast in its mission to create a peaceful, progressive, and prosperous Pakistan,” said Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
He commended the resilience and loyalty of PPP workers, calling them the backbone of the party’s enduring strength and success. Reaffirming the PPP’s commitment to its foundational ideals, he vowed to continue the fight against oppression, inequality, and injustice. “As we celebrate this historic day, let us renew our pledge to uphold the party’s principles and work tirelessly for the welfare of the people. Together, we will fulfill the vision of a democratic and inclusive Pakistan,” the Chairman added.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari urged party members and supporters to commemorate Foundation Day with enthusiasm and unity, honoring the sacrifices of those who laid down their lives for the cause of democracy and freedom.
President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
(On the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, 29th November 2024)
On the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, Pakistan reaffirms its unwavering support for the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, as well as for the establishment of an independent, viable, and contiguous State of Palestine, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its Capital, based on the pre-1967 borders. We stand in solidarity with the resilient people of Palestine in their rightful struggle for freedom, dignity, and justice.
This day is being commemorated at a time when the world is witnessing ethnic cleansing, the destruction of infrastructure and residential areas, and the sufferings and displacement of Palestinians in Gaza and other Occupied Palestinian Territories as a result of Israel’s ongoing genocidal military campaign. Over the past one-year, Israeli actions, in blatant violation of international humanitarian law, have claimed more than 45,000 Palestinian lives, mostly women and children. Millions of Palestinians are being deliberately denied life-saving humanitarian assistance by Israel by obstructing the vital work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), as well as other aid agencies. Israeli impunity and continued aggression against other countries in the region also imperil the peace and stability of the entire region and beyond.
Pakistan strongly condemns these acts of aggression and urges the international community to act urgently and decisively to end the genocide of the Palestinian people. The global conscience cannot ignore the plight of millions who face unprecedented hardships due to Israeli occupation. We believe that the continued occupation and disregard for international law is the biggest obstacle to achieving peace in the region.
Today, Pakistan reiterates its call on the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, provision of unimpeded humanitarian supplies to alleviate the sufferings of millions of Palestinians, as well as to hold Israel accountable for its actions that the International Court of Justice has rightly described as “plausible genocide.” Pakistan welcomes and supports all measures towards accountability of Israel and its leadership in this regard.
Let this day serve as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to ensure justice and equality for the Palestinian people. Pakistan stands resolute in its support for Palestine and remains committed to supporting the inalienable rights of the Palestinians to self-determination.
He emphasized the need to empower women and safeguard their safety, dignity, and rights. Reaffirming the PPP’s dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment, he called for a society free from fear, discrimination, and violence.
In a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP expressed grave concern over the widespread prevalence of gender-based violence, urging immediate action to address its causes through comprehensive legislative, social, and cultural reforms. “Violence against women is a gross violation of human rights and a major impediment to achieving a just and equitable society. We must commit ourselves to eliminating it from all aspects of life, be it at home, in the workplace, or in public spaces,” he said.
Highlighting the PPP’s pioneering role in advancing women’s rights in Pakistan, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said, “The PPP has a proud history of empowering women by electing them as Prime Minister, Speaker, and Ministers, besides appointing judges and other key posts for the first time in the history of Pakistan.” He credited Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto with laying the foundation for gender equality through the 1973 Constitution, which ensures protection against gender-based discrimination and promotes women’s participation in all walks of life. “Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto opened new avenues for women by focusing on their education, empowerment, and protection,” he added.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari paid tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto as a global icon of women’s empowerment. He highlighted her transformative initiatives, including the establishment of women’s police stations, the First Women Bank, and the Lady Health Workers Program, which created opportunities for women across Pakistan. He pledged to uphold her legacy by continuing to work for a society where women are safe, valued, and equal contributors to progress.
He also highlighted the contributions of President Asif Ali Zardari during his first tenure, particularly the introduction of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP), which has become a globally recognized poverty alleviation initiative focused on women. Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari praised the PPP’s efforts to empower women economically by granting land to female peasants, providing residential plots to over two million flood-affected women, and offering interest-free loans to support women entrepreneurs in various trades. He lauded the remarkable success of these programs, noting that 97% of the women repaid their loans while sustaining their businesses.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also commended the Sindh Government for its legislative achievements aimed at protecting women, such as the Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act, 2013, the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010, and the Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2013. He emphasized the importance of effective implementation to ensure these laws deliver tangible benefits.
Calling for collective action, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stated, “The elimination of violence against women is not just a women’s issue but a societal one. It demands the combined efforts of policymakers, civil society, and citizens. Together, we can build a future where every woman lives free from fear and inequality.”
He concluded his message by expressing solidarity with victims of violence, advocating for justice, and urging the establishment of robust support systems to empower survivors. He called on everyone to mark this day by raising awareness, supporting victims, and promoting gender equality as a shared responsibility.
Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has paid a heartfelt tribute to Shaheed Shahnawaz Bhutto, commemorating him as a symbol of resistance, courage, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy and social justice.
In a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House on Shaheed Shahnawaz Bhutto’s birth anniversary, Chairman PPP highlighted his extraordinary dedication to the cause of a just and equitable society. He stated, “Shaheed Shahnawaz Bhutto’s life, though tragically cut short, remains a source of inspiration for generations to stand against oppression and champion the rights of the marginalized. His sacrifice is a testament to the resilience and determination that define the Bhutto legacy.”
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reaffirmed the Pakistan Peoples Party’s commitment to upholding the vision of the Bhutto family, founded on the principles of democracy, human rights, and social equality. He called on party workers and supporters to mark the occasion by renewing their dedication to the mission for which Shaheed Shahnawaz Bhutto lived and laid down his life.
“Let us honor his memory by continuing the struggle for a Pakistan where justice, freedom, and equality prevail,” Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari added.
President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
(For the Occasion of World Diabetes Day on 14th November 2024)
World Diabetes Day is observed annually on 14th November to make people aware about risks of the disease. This year’s theme, “Diabetes and Well-being,” underscores the importance of addressing the growing global diabetes crisis and its profound impact on health and well-being.
Increasing cases of diabetes are primarily linked to sedentary living, poor dietary habits, and a lack of education about the disease. The disease can be controlled—and even prevented—through proactive measures by adopting a healthier lifestyle, regular exercises, balanced nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight.
We need to raise awareness about the risks of diabetes and the importance of prevention and early intervention. This can be achieved through collaboration with the media, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
Furthermore, we must strengthen Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure to ensure that all individuals have access to affordable and effective diabetes care. By working together with both national and international partners, we can improve our healthcare systems, implement preventive measures and provide cost-effective treatment to those living with diabetes.
On this World Diabetes Day, we reaffirm our commitment to tackling the challenge of diabetes by raising awareness, and investing in prevention and treatment, we can reduce the burden of this silent killer and improve the lives of millions of Pakistanis.
Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has warmly extended his heartiest greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world on the auspicious occasion of Diwali. This festival of lights reflects the universal principles of unity, peace, and goodwill that enrich Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage.
In a message issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP extended his congratulations and best wishes, acknowledging the valuable contributions of the Hindu and Scheduled Castes community to Pakistan’s society. “Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and symbolizes commitment to harmony, respect, and understanding among all communities,” he remarked.
Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari further emphasized his party’s steadfast dedication to upholding the rights of all religious minorities in Pakistan, ensuring they can celebrate their traditions freely and with dignity. “The values Diwali represents—hope, strength, and compassion—are principles we must uphold as we strive for a progressive and inclusive Pakistan,” he stated. He reaffirmed PPP’s pledge to foster an environment where every citizen, regardless of faith, can thrive in a spirit of mutual respect and unity.