Govt committed to mobilising support persons with disabilities
03 December, 2013
ISLAMABAD: President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have urged all the segments of society to make concerted efforts to ensure participation of people with disabilities in the mainstream of life. The president, in his message on International Day of the Persons with Disabilities being observed today (Tuesday), called upon government departments, civil society, philanthropists, corporate sector and media to make concerted and sustained efforts for ensuring active participation of people with disability in the mainstream of national life and ensure a dignified life for them. "International Day of the Persons with Disabilities reminds us of our moral, social and religious obligations to work individually as well as collectively for the betterment of our brethren with special needs and help them lead a normal life," he added. The president said the government was cognisant of its obligation to take all-possible legal, administrative, financial and other measures for the welfare of the disabled persons. "Our constitution guarantees equal opportunities to all citizens irrespective of physical disadvantages," he added. It was, he said, an occasion to reiterate commitment as responsible and conscientious society to create more space for the people with disabilities in society and to help them utilise their potential towards the progress and the development of the country. He said the theme of 2013 International Day of People with Disabilities – Break barriers, open doors: for an inclusive society and development for all – rightly draws attention to the challenges the special people were facing with a view to finding solutions to their sufferings. He said under the umbrella of UN and with the assistance of international partners, the government of Pakistan was striving hard to provide quality services to this important segment of society and make them useful members of society. "I assure people with special needs that the government is fully committed and would take all possible measures to cater to their needs and help them lead a healthy and normal life," he said, adding "However, government's efforts towards this important cause need to be complemented by all sections of society." Separately, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said in his message on the day that the government of Pakistan is committed to promoting an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. "A barrier free inclusive society is vital to the success of any democratic process," he said. The prime minister said that in today's competitively driven economy, every Pakistani has to work hard for the betterment of the beloved country. "Hence, I urge upon special persons to come forward and play their constructive role for the development of Pakistan. I assure full facilitation by the government", he added. The prime minister further said that the present government is fully aware of the needs of the special persons and is committed to helping them maintain their health and lives with respect. End.
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