President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have expressed commitment to ensure conducive environment for women to realize their full potential, Radio Pakistan reported. In their separate messages on International Women’s Day being celebrated today, they paid tribute to the women, mothers, sisters, and daughters of Pakistan and around the world. President said the government is working to expand access to education and healthcare to women, strengthen economic opportunity and improve protection against violence. “Pakistan’s history reflects the strength and resolve of its women. We remember Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who led the nation with courage and showed that women can serve at the highest levels of public life,” he said adding, “In public institutions, in the private sector and in communities across the country, women continue to contribute with dedication and skill.” He said women’s representation in Parliament and provincial assemblies has been ensured through constitutional provisions. “From cockpits to tractor steering wheels, from intensive care units to classrooms, from sports fields to the floor of Parliament, Pakistani women have stepped forward wherever the nation has needed their talent and determination. “They have taken part in public service and civic engagement and have also led historic democratic movements, including reaching the office of the Prime Minister. Their presence across these fields reflects commitment to national progress,” he continued. He said, “We also recall Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, who stood for constitutional rule and democratic values at a critical time and Begum Nusrat Bhutto, who endured hardship while defending democratic principles. Their courage strengthened the path for greater participation of women in public life.” “Building on this legacy, Pakistan has ensured women’s representation in Parliament and provincial assemblies through constitutional provisions that enable their direct role in legislation and public policy,” he remarked. In his statement, Prime Minister emphasized that the overall development and prosperity of the nation can only be achieved through equal opportunities and meaningful participation for women. “Protecting women’s rights is a guarantee of sustainable development and national prosperity,” he said, adding, “The overall development and prosperity of the nation is ensured only by equal opportunities and meaningful participation for women.” The Prime Minister said, “The hard work, determination, courage, and valuable services of women in every sphere of life are a source of pride and strength for us as a nation. Women are key to the foundation of not only the family but also society and the nation based on positive values.” “From education to sports, from homes to government, the perseverance and achievements of Pakistani women are playing a revolutionary role in building a strong and prosperous country,” he said adding, “From the positions of Prime Minister, Speaker of the Assembly, Chief Minister to the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, health, education, business and the armed forces, women have paved new paths for future generations.” “Pakistan has effective legislation for the legal protection of women’s rights, which is a manifestation of the national resolve against harassment and exploitation,” he informed. He said, “Access to quality education for women, financial inclusion, support for women entrepreneurs, safety in the workplace and effective measures against harassment and violence are among the top priorities of the government.” “Let us all work together to create a society where every woman has equal opportunities for advancement with dignity and respect so that Pakistan can move towards a more just, developed, and inclusive future,” he added.