First Lady Samina Alvi has emphasized inclusion of women in all fields of life, particularly in trade, business digitalization and finance is imperative for progress of the country. Addressing a ceremony held in connection with "International WomenDay in Islamabad on Wednesday, she said currently, the ratio of women in Pakistan is almost fifty percent, but we still have a long way to go in terms of empowerment. The First Lady said this day serves as an important opportunity for taking stock of the progress made so far and to reflect the challenges that stand in the way of women rights and equal participation in decision-making in all walks of public life. She said despite number of challenges, women in Pakistan have always shown the strength of character and resilience. From Begam Ra'ana Liaqat Ali Khan, the UN Human Rights Award winner, to Arfa Karim, the youngest Microsoft Certified Professional at nine years old, Pakistani women have broken barriers and shattered stereotypes.

She emphasized that the Quran, in Surah Nisa, recognizes the rights given to women by our religion. It is our duty to ensure and advocate for the rights and empowerment of women, which is essential for future generations. Samina Alvi said Pakistan is taking concrete steps to provide women equal opportunities to excel. She said a number of steps have been taken in Pakistan to protect and guarantee the rights of women in Pakistan including formation of National Policy for the Development and Empowerment of Women, a National Action Plan on Human Rights, Gender Equality Policy Frameworks, and Women's Empowerment Packages. The First Lady reiterated that it is crucial to include women in decision-making and provide them with equal job opportunities in a safe environment to feel comfortable and prosper.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-INP