ISLAMABAD: For the first time in the history of Pakistan, Human Rights Minister Senator Kamran Michael has made a move to provide a special train service to the Christians of the country. The train service, dubbed the Christmas train, will be launched on December 22.
Talking to Daily Times, Michael said that the Christian community was an equal partner in the struggle for ensuring sustained development, stability, security and solidarity of the country. He said the ‘Christmas train’ would highlight the role of Christians in the creation of the country and its development. He added that the constitution of Pakistan grants non-Muslims the freedom of observing their religious practices.
Railway Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique and the senator will inaugurate the special train on December 22 at Margalla Railway Station, Islamabad. Michael is eager for the participation of a large number of diplomats, media and members of civil society. The two ministers will bear the expenses of the train service.
Michael urged the Christian community in particular and other citizens to reaffirm their commitment to continued efforts for strengthening the socio-economic ties and feeling of nationhood in the country. He added that this state of fraternal cohesion and nationhood would help citizens to work for the collective well-being of the nation and ensure a secure and prosperous future for all.