ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday called for building the spirit of peace and harmony exemplified by Pakistan’s minority communities for continued growth and development as a nation.

Addressing a function to mark the National Min­orities Day, prime minister emphasised on enhanced focus on modern education and skill development.

He said collective efforts should be made, particularly in the health and education sectors and youth empowerment.

He said minority communities, including Christians, Hindus, Parsis, and Sikhs, have always lived very peacefully, making up a cohesive and harmonious society. He said all were playing an active role in the development of the country.

Applauding the minority communities’ services to Pakistan, the prime minister highlighted how they worked shoulder to shoulder with Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah for the creation of Pakistan.

He paid glowing tribute to heroes like Jogendra Nath Mandal and Cecil Chaudhry.

He made special mention of the minority communities’ role during wars for the defence of the motherland

Earlier, in a statement, the prime minister said his government was taking steps to establish an independent commission to protect minority rights, as the country marked National Minorities Day.

The commission, being established under legislation enacted last year, will address grievances, monitor constitutional and legal safeguards and issues involving places of worship and employment quotas, and make recommendations on government policies and laws.

Published in Dawn, August 12th, 2026