ISLAMABAD, Aug. 19 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed the country's commitment to humanitarian principles, human dignity and solidarity, paying tribute to humanitarian workers on World Humanitarian Day.
In his message, Zardari said humanitarian workers serve on the frontlines during natural disasters, emergencies and crises, often under difficult conditions. Their "swift response, contribution to relief and rehabilitation and commitment to helping people in distress deserve our deepest appreciation," he said.
He reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to protecting fundamental rights and human dignity under the Constitution and international human rights treaties.
Sharif, meanwhile, highlighted Pakistan's contributions to UN peacekeeping and its decades-long hosting of Afghan refugees as examples of the country's humanitarian tradition.
At home, he said the government was working to protect vulnerable groups, promote inclusion of people with disabilities, increase women's participation and strengthen child protection and youth empowerment.
"Pakistan reaffirms its national commitment...to stand firmly for the highest ideals of humanity in times of peace as well as in times of crisis," Sharif added. ■