Maryam Nawaz, the Chief Minister of Pakistan's Punjab province, recently embraced the spirit of Punjabi unity and hospitality by welcoming a group of Sikh pilgrims, predominantly from India, who were visiting Pakistan to participate in the Baisakhi festivities. In a symbolic gesture, Maryam emphasized the importance of fostering friendly relations with neighboring countries, echoing the sentiments of her father, Nawaz Sharif, a former Prime Minister of Pakistan. She stressed the need to embrace openness and goodwill towards neighboring nations rather than engaging in conflict.
Speaking at the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara, a revered site for Sikhs with historical significance, Maryam highlighted her personal connection to Punjab and the shared heritage between Pakistan and India. She underscored her commitment to promoting Punjabi culture and unity, expressing pride in her roots and heritage. Maryam's remarks reflected a sense of inclusivity and respect for diversity, emphasizing the importance of celebrating festivals and traditions that unite communities across borders.
Maryam also took the opportunity to acknowledge her father's contributions, particularly his efforts in initiating the Kartarpur Corridor project, which aims to facilitate pilgrimage for Sikh devotees from India to visit sacred sites in Pakistan. She attributed her government's commitment to ensuring the welfare and rights of minority communities, exemplified by initiatives such as appointing the first Sikh minister in her administration and undertaking infrastructure projects to enhance accessibility for pilgrims.
Furthermore, Maryam highlighted the significance of the Baisakhi festival, noting that it was being officially celebrated at the government level in Pakistan for the first time. She emphasized the spirit of inclusivity by affirming her administration's support for commemorating various religious and cultural festivals, including Holi, Easter, and Baisakhi, as part of Pakistan's diverse tapestry of traditions.
Maryam's visit to the gurdwara culminated in a gesture of camaraderie and solidarity, as she spent time engaging with Sikh devotees, partaking in langar (community meal), and sharing heartfelt moments with pilgrims, including an elderly woman from India. Her actions exemplified a commitment to fostering understanding and harmony between different communities, embodying the spirit of cooperation and goodwill.
