ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his unwavering support for the people of Palestine and Jammu and Kashmir, his office said in a statement, as the nation celebrates the Eid Al-Adha festival today, Wednesday.
Sharif’s message came as Muslims in Pakistan and other parts of the world mark the Eid Al-Adha festival, which pays homage to Prophet Ibrahim’s (peace be upon him) willingness to sacrifice his son for god. Special prayers were held in mosques around the country as people sacrificed cattle.
Pakistan has consistently voiced its support for Palestinians ever since Israel began its military operations in the region on Oct. 7, 2023. As per international media reports, Israel has killed over 900 people since a fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel took place in October last year.
“Let us remember the underprivileged around us, share the joys of Eid with those in need, and reaffirm our commitment to unity, brotherhood, and service to humanity,” Sharif wrote in his message for Eid Al-Adha.
“We also stand in unwavering solidarity with our oppressed brothers and sisters in Palestine and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir.”
In a separate message, the military’s media wing said Eid Al-Adha symbolizes sacrifice, faith, and solidarity.
“The Pakistan Armed Forces remain steadfast in their sacred duty to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country and stand shoulder to shoulder with the nation in pursuit of peace and stability,” its statement added.
Sharif spoke to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Tuesday night to exchange Eid greetings. The two leaders spoke about Pakistan’s mediation efforts in the Iran war and trade and investment cooperation.
“We agreed to further accelerate our cooperation in trade, investment, and regional connectivity, while continuing our close coordination for peace, stability, and dialogue in the region,” Sharif wrote on X.
“Pakistan and Türkiye remain united in the fight against terrorism and in our shared pursuit of peace, stability, and prosperity.”
