President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have paid tribute to humanitarian workers and organisations engaged in relief efforts, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to humanitarian values, human dignity and the protection of fundamental rights on World Humanitarian Day.

In his message, President Zardari said relief workers played a vital role in providing timely assistance and support to people affected by natural disasters, emergencies and other crises.

He also appreciated the contributions of social workers, medical professionals, child protection workers and human rights activists, saying it was a collective responsibility to ensure that no one was left without help during times of crisis.

The president said humanitarian workers helped communities cope with emergencies and recover from their impact. Pakistan, he added, remained committed to promoting compassion, respect for humanity and the protection of basic rights.

President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to work with the international community to advance humanitarian principles and protect fundamental rights under the Constitution and international human rights agreements.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, said Pakistan was renewing its commitment to humanitarianism, human dignity, solidarity and the spirit of service alongside the international community.

He paid tribute to individuals, organisations and institutions that had dedicated their efforts to improving the lives of people in need.

The prime minister noted that World Humanitarian Day is observed every year in memory of the 22 humanitarian workers who were killed in the 2003 bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad. The day recognises the sacrifices of those who continue to provide assistance in conflict- and disaster-hit areas.

Shehbaz said Pakistan had a long-standing tradition of humanitarian support and solidarity. He highlighted the country’s prominent contribution to UN peacekeeping missions and its assistance during regional and global humanitarian crises.

The prime minister also cited Pakistan’s decades-long hosting of millions of Afghan refugees as an example of the nation’s commitment to hospitality, compassion and international solidarity.

He said the government was committed to protecting the rights and dignity of vulnerable and disadvantaged groups within the country. Efforts were being made to build a more inclusive, equal and empowered society while ensuring wider access to opportunities.

According to the prime minister, the Ministry of Human Rights had, over the past year, translated policy commitments into practical humanitarian measures through a network of welfare centres, training institutions and protection facilities.

He said steps were also being taken to promote social inclusion and access to essential civic services and facilities for persons with disabilities, while initiatives were under way to increase women’s participation in the country’s social and economic systems.

Shehbaz stressed that protecting vulnerable groups, promoting gender equality, safeguarding children and empowering young people were essential for advancing human rights, social justice and public welfare at the grassroots level.

On World Humanitarian Day, he said Pakistan was renewing its commitment to stand by humanity in times of both peace and crisis and to ensure that vulnerable communities receive protection, assistance and opportunities to live with dignity.