LAHORE: Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) organized a special event to commemorate Minority Day, aimed at highlighting the importance of minority rights in Pakistan and acknowledging the contributions of various communities.
A large number of individuals from different religious backgrounds attended the event and appreciated the LCCI’s initiative.
The Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora was the chief guest, while LCCI President Kashif Anwar delivered the welcome address. Notable attendees included LCCI Vice President Adnan Khalid Butt, Sardar Bishan Singh, Bishop Sohael Yousaf, Pandit Amarnath Randhawa, Professor Mahmood Ghaznavi, Qari Khalid Usman Nori, Professor Shabbir, and a significant number of religious scholars.
LCCI President Kashif Anwar emphasized the strength that comes from unity among all segments of society. He informed the attendees that this was the first time in LCCI’s history that Minority Day was celebrated. He stressed the importance of respecting all religions.
Provincial Minister Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora commended LCCI for organizing the event, stating that such traditions would project a positive image of Pakistan to the world. He mentioned that the Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, had increased the budget for minorities by 200 percent and that work was underway to restore religious sites, aiming to promote religious tourism. He urged everyone to collectively respond to the enemies of Pakistan.
LCCI President Kashif Anwar highlighted the need for promoting religious tourism and stated that minorities are ambassadors of Pakistan who can raise their voices at the international level. Anwar praised the Punjab government’s efforts in the development of Kartarpur.
He informed the participants that LCCI has signed multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with hospitals and educational institutions and has worked extensively on women’s empowerment, as the country cannot progress without their inclusion.
Provincial Minister Arora mentioned that the Chief Minister of Punjab is committed to maintaining peace and security for minorities. He added that, at his request, Minority Day was celebrated in the Provincial Assembly with diplomats from around the world in attendance.
Arora reiterated that the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees equal rights for minorities. He called for adherence to the law and reminded everyone that all communities made sacrifices for the creation of Pakistan.
