The President of Pakistan

President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed deep grief over the tragic loss of precious lives in the explosion and fire at a steel plant in İzmir, Türkiye. “My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Our thoughts and prayers are with them in this difficult time. We wish a swift and complete recovery to all those injured,” the President said. He extended sympathies to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the people of Türkiye, reaffirming Pakistan’s solidarity with its brotherly country in this hour of grief. @RTErdogan

President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed deep grief over the loss of lives in the tragic fire incident in Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China. “Our hearts go out to the bereaved families and to the leadership and people of China,” the President said. He reaffirmed that Pakistan and China share an enduring bond of friendship and brotherhood, adding that the people of Pakistan stand in full solidarity with their Chinese brothers and sisters in this hour of sorrow.

"On this Iqbal Day, I urge our young people to use inspiration from Iqbal’s poetry as a catalyst to boost the spirit of inquiry, develop critical faculties. Let us translate Khudi into confidence rooted in knowledge, national self-respect into hard work to transform Pakistan into a developed and strong nation, and the ideal of equality into justice in everyday life." ~President Asif Ali Zardari Message on the occasion of 149th Iqbal Day

صدرِ مملکت آصف علی زرداری کا شمالی وزیرستان کے علاقے میر علی میں دہشت گردوں کے ٹھکانوں کے خلاف کامیاب انٹیلی جنس بیسڈ آپریشن پر سیکیورٹی فورسز کو خراجِ تحسین۔ صدرِ مملکت نے مساجد میں قائم دہشت گردوں کے ٹھکانوں سے بارودی مواد، اسلحہ اور گولہ بارود برآمد کرنے پر سیکیورٹی فورسز کی پیشہ ورانہ مہارت اور کامیابی کو سراہا۔ مساجد کو بارودی مواد ذخیرہ کرنے اور تشدد کے مراکز کے طور پر استعمال کرنا اسلام کی بنیادی تعلیمات کی صریح خلاف ورزی ہے: صدرِ مملکت دہشت گردوں کی جانب سے مقدس مقامات کی بے حرمتی اور انہیں اپنے مذموم مقاصد کے لیے استعمال کرنا قابلِ مذمت ہے: صدر آصف علی زرداری افغان طالبان کی معاونت سے سرگرم دہشت گرد عناصر کا اسلام سے کوئی تعلق نہیں، مذہب کی من پسند تشریح اور ناجائز استعمال ناقابلِ قبول ہے: صدرِ مملکت فتنہ الخوارج کی دہشت گردانہ کارروائیاں اور مساجد کی بے حرمتی ان کے اسلام دشمن عزائم کا واضح ثبوت ہیں: صدر زرداری

"Iqbal envisioned a society in which wealth, privilege and inherited status would no longer determine a person’s worth or opportunities. His poetry challenged exploitation, called for the awakening of the poor and upheld the dignity of labour." ~President Asif Ali Zardari Message on the occasion of 149th Iqbal Day

President Zardari felicitates King and people of Cambodia on Independence Day President Asif Ali Zardari has extended warm felicitations to His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of the Kingdom of Cambodia, and the Cambodian people on the occasion of their country’s 73rd Independence Day. In his message, the President recalled that Pakistan was among the first countries to recognise Cambodia’s independence, reflecting the longstanding goodwill and friendship between the two nations. The President said that Pakistan values its cordial relations with Cambodia, founded on mutual trust and respect. He expressed confidence that enhanced engagement and cooperation in areas of mutual interest would further strengthen bilateral ties. The President highlighted the potential for expanding bilateral trade and investment, particularly in agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals and tourism. He stressed the importance of closer links between the business communities of the two countries to explore new opportunities and translate their friendly relations into tangible economic benefits for both peoples. ——-

Message from President Asif Ali Zardari on the occasion of 149th Iqbal Day (9 November 2026) On 149th birth anniversary of Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal, I pay tribute to our national poet, whose words awakened a people to their dignity, their rights and their power to shape their own destiny. Iqbal gave intellectual direction to the aspirations of the Muslims of the Subcontinent. His poetry also spoke to a wider human struggle: the pursuit of freedom, equality and a life of self-respect. Iqbal envisioned a society in which wealth, privilege and inherited status would no longer determine a person’s worth or opportunities. His poetry challenged exploitation, called for the awakening of the poor and upheld the dignity of labour. He placed ordinary people at the centre of humanity’s future. His vision of an egalitarian society calls upon us to build a Pakistan where the worker receives a fair wage, the farmer enjoys the fruits of his labour, and every child can learn and advance, regardless of family circumstances, gender or faith. At the heart of this vision lies Khudi: the development of a confident, purposeful and responsible self. It grows through knowledge, effort, courage and strength of character. A person conscious of his or her own dignity must also respect the dignity of others. The same principle applies to nations. National self-respect demands the capacity to make independent decisions, develop our own strengths and engage with other countries on the basis of equality and mutual respect. “For me, fidelity to Iqbal’s vision means building a Pakistan where no citizen’s dignity is diminished by poverty, no child’s future is limited by birth, and our nation stands among others with confidence and self-respect.” Iqbal’s poetry also carried a powerful message of Asia’s awakening. He urged its peoples to overcome subjugation, recover their confidence and become makers of their own future. As we look towards the dawn of an Asian century, his message acquires renewed significance. The promise of that century must reach beyond economic growth to embrace freedom from hunger, access to knowledge and opportunity, and respect for the sovereignty of nations. Pakistan must help realise this promise through education, scientific progress, regional cooperation and peace. The struggle for the empowerment of ordinary people has continued through our political history. Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto gave voice to those denied influence and opportunity, affirming their right to participate in national life. We honour that democratic tradition by strengthening institutions, protecting equal citizenship and ensuring that development improves the lives of the many. On this Iqbal Day, I urge our young people to use inspiration from Iqbal’s poetry as a catalyst to boost the spirit of inquiry, develop critical faculties. Let us translate Khudi into confidence rooted in knowledge, national self-respect into hard work to transform Pakistan into a developed and strong nation, and the ideal of equality into justice in everyday life. This is how we can honour Iqbal and fulfil the promise of Pakistan.

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed profound sadness over the tragic shooting in Kraków, Poland, and the precious lives lost. The President extended his deepest condolences to Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the bereaved families on behalf of himself, the Government and the people of Pakistan. He prayed that the families enduring this grievous loss find strength and solace and that all those injured make a swift and complete recovery. The President reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Government and people of Poland in this hour of mourning.

The First Lady has expressed deep sadness over the killing of journalist Rabia Ahsan and strongly condemned the violence. She called for a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to establish the facts and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. She also expressed dismay over another incident disturbing pattern of killing of another professional woman in the same metropolitan area. Less than three months ago, Hina Javed was killed and the outcome of the investigation into her case is still awaited. Such incidents demand serious attention and accountability. Women must be able to live and work without fear for their lives.

"As families gather and light their diyas, let us remember those facing hardship and share the happiness of this occasion with them. May we carry the warmth of Diwali into our daily lives through kindness, friendship and care for one another." ~Asifa Bhutto Zardari, First Lady of Pakistan

"Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah envisioned a country where faith, caste or creed would be no barrier to equal citizenship and equal rights. We must honour that vision by ensuring that every citizen can practise their faith freely, live in dignity and enjoy equal protection under the law." ~President Asif Ali Zardari Message On the Occasion of Diwali

"My mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, believed in a Pakistan that belonged equally to all its people. Her commitment to equality continues to guide me. I want every child, especially every girl, to grow up knowing that her faith is respected, her dreams matter and her future holds promise." ~Asifa Bhutto Zardari, First Lady of Pakistan

"Pakistan’s Hindu community is an integral part of our national life. Its contributions to education, healthcare, business, public service, social welfare, arts and culture have enriched our country. On this occasion, I pay tribute to these contributions and reaffirm that Pakistan belongs equally to all its citizens." ~President Asif Ali Zardari Message On the Occasion of Diwali

Message from the First Lady of Pakistan, Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari on Diwali. On the joyous occasion of Diwali, I extend my warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world. As a daughter of Sindh, this festival holds a special place in my heart. Sindh’s spirit of love, hospitality and respect for different faiths is part of my own heritage. Across generations, our Hindu brothers and sisters have helped shape its culture, sustain its communities and enrich its shared traditions. Their heritage is an inseparable part of Sindh’s identity and of Pakistan’s national life. Diwali celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and hope over despair. Its message finds a natural home in the land of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai and Sachal Sarmast, whose poetry speaks of love, human dignity and bonds that transcend religious differences. Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah envisioned a Pakistan where every citizen would be free to practise their faith and live with dignity. Upholding that vision means ensuring that every community can celebrate its festivals with joy and security, and that every citizen enjoys equal rights and opportunities. My mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, believed in a Pakistan that belonged equally to all its people. Her commitment to equality continues to guide me. I want every child, especially every girl, to grow up knowing that her faith is respected, her dreams matter and her future holds promise. As families gather and light their diyas, let us remember those facing hardship and share the happiness of this occasion with them. May we carry the warmth of Diwali into our daily lives through kindness, friendship and care for one another. May the lights of Diwali bring peace, happiness and prosperity to every home. Happy Diwali!

Message from President Asif Ali Zardari on the Occasion of Diwali On the joyous occasion of Diwali, I extend my warm greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world. The festival of lights celebrates the symbolism of triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and hope over despair. Its message of compassion and renewal reminds us that each of us can bring light into the lives of others through kindness, understanding, compassion and care. Pakistan’s Hindu community is an integral part of our national life. Its contributions to education, healthcare, business, public service, social welfare, arts and culture have enriched our country. On this occasion, I pay tribute to these contributions and reaffirm that Pakistan belongs equally to all its citizens. Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah envisioned a country where faith, caste or creed would be no barrier to equal citizenship and equal rights. We must honour that vision by ensuring that every citizen can practise their faith freely, live in dignity and enjoy equal protection under the law. “For me, Quaid-e-Azam’s promise of equal citizenship is a sacred national commitment. The Pakistan Peoples Party’s tradition, carried forward by Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, also calls upon us to defend that promise without fear or favour. No Pakistani should ever have to prove their belonging because of their faith. This country is their home, its freedoms are their right, and its future is theirs to shape.” Diwali is also an occasion to strengthen the bonds that unite us as Pakistanis. By sharing in one another’s celebrations, standing together in times of difficulties and rejecting prejudice and discrimination, we can build a more just and compassionate society. Our diversity is not our weakness but a great strength. It should be clear to all of us that protecting the rights of religious minorities is our shared responsibility. As families gather, pray and celebrate by lighting the lamps, my thoughts and good wishes are with all those celebrating. May the light of Diwali bring joy to your homes, comfort to those facing difficulties and renewed hope for the year ahead. Happy Diwali! Pakistan Zindabad!

صدرِ مملکت آصف علی زرداری کا سابق صدر آزاد جموں و کشمیر راجہ محمد ذوالقرنین خان کے انتقال پر اظہارِ افسوس۔ راجہ محمد ذوالقرنین خان کی سیاسی اور عوامی خدمات کو ہمیشہ یاد رکھا جائے گا: صدرِ مملکت صدرِ مملکت کی مرحوم کے درجات کی بلندی اور اہلِ خانہ کے لیے صبرِ جمیل کی دعا۔

President Asif Ali Zardari has congratulated President Iliana Yotova on her election as President of the Republic of Bulgaria and the people of Bulgaria on expressing their mandate through a peaceful and democratic process. The President has expressed confidence that the friendly relations between Pakistan and Bulgaria, rooted in mutual respect and cooperation, will grow even stronger under her leadership. “It is a matter of extra joy for us and the Bulgarian women that she is the first Bulgarian woman to be elected to this high office,” said the President. @MFABulgaria

“The memory of the Jammu martyrs places a responsibility upon us all: to resist hatred, defend human dignity and ensure that no people are denied their rights through violence, discrimination or fear.” ~President Asif Ali Zardari Message On Jammu Martyrs’ Day

"Thousands of men, women and children lost their lives, while countless others were forced to abandon their homes and ancestral lands. These atrocities altered the demographic composition of Jammu and left wounds that endure across generations. The tragedy of 6 November 1947 must never be forgotten." ~President Asif Ali Zardari Message On Jammu Martyrs’ Day

2/2 The armed conflict created by India in May last year under the pretext of the Pahalgam false flag operation of April, 2025, demonstrated the urgent need for responsible conduct and sustained diplomacy. Lasting peace in South Asia requires a just and peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Military force and repression cannot substitute for a political settlement. India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August 2019 and subsequent measures have further undermined the rights of the Kashmiri people. India must reverse these measures, cease attempts to alter the demographic character of the illegally occupied territory and create conditions for the Kashmiri people to exercise their inalienable right to self-determination, a commitment that India itself undertook but has yet to fulfill. The passage of time cannot extinguish their rights or diminish the international community’s responsibility to uphold them. On this solemn occasion, I urge the international community, particularly the United Nations, to remember the victims of the Jammu massacre and act upon the concerns raised by independent human rights organisations and UN human rights mechanisms. India must release all those arbitrarily detained, protect journalists and human rights defenders, end punitive demolitions and collective punishment, and ensure independent investigations into alleged human rights violations. It must also provide unhindered access to international human rights observers and cooperate fully with relevant UN mechanisms. Counter-terrorism narrative used by India cannot justify violations of fundamental rights or the punishment of entire families and communities. Pakistan remains steadfast in its principled position on Jammu and Kashmir. We will continue to raise this unresolved dispute at every relevant international forum and extend our moral, political and diplomatic support to our Kashmiri brothers and sisters until they are able to exercise their right to self-determination, in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions. On this day, we honour the martyrs and reaffirm our solidarity with all Kashmiris who continue to endure suffering and separation from their loved ones. May Allah Almighty grant the martyrs the highest place in Jannah and bless the people of Jammu and Kashmir with freedom, peace and prosperity. .....