Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf says minorities enjoy equal rights and complete independence in Pakistan.

He was addressing a ceremony in connection with Holi festival held in Islamabad this evening under the auspices of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.

The Minister said Pakistan is a peaceful country and all its citizens enjoy every facility as enshrined in the Constitution.

Highlighting the importance of minorities' role in country's development, he said there is a vivid representation of minorities in Senate, National Assembly and provincial assemblies.

Sardar Muhammad Yousaf said separate funds are allocated for the welfare of minorities and the upkeep of their religious sites. He said a five percent quota has been reserved for the minority communities in jobs.

Condemning the continued atrocities in Gaza by Israel, he said Pakistan has always raised its voice for the rights of the people of Palestine.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Kesoo Mal Kheal Das highlighted that minorities have a key role in the development and prosperity of Pakistan.

He also raised serious concern over silence of the international human rights organisations against the brutalities being committed against Muslims in Gaza and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Leading members of the religious minorities, including women and children attended the event.