ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Friday emphasised that empowering women and ensuring their full participation in all sectors was vital for national progress.

Speaking on the eve of International Women`s Day, observed globally on March 8, he reiterated the importance of gender equality in building a prosperous society.

In a statement issued here, he highlighted that Islam grants women dignity and equal rights, strictly opposing any form of gender discrimination.

Urging a shift in societal attitudes, he called for inclusive policies that enhanced women`s role in economic and social spheres.

He reaffirmed the parliament`s commit-ment to implementing measures that secure women`s rights and provide them with opportunities to contribute to the country`s development.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq acknowledged the active participation of women in Pakistan`s parliament, where they played a crucial role in legislative affairs. He praised the efforts of the Women`s Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) and the Special Committee on Gender Mainstreaming in advocating for gender equal-ity.

He also lauded Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif`s initiatives for women`s education, healthcare and employment, underscoring the significance of these contributions to national welfare.

Reflecting on Pakistan`s history, he paid tribute to the pivotal roles of Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, Begum Raana Liaquat Ali Khan, Begum Jahan Ara Shahnawaz and Begum Shaista Ikramullah in the Pakistan Movement. He noted that their leadership and sacrifices laid the foundation for women`s empowerment in the country.

He also honoured Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto as the first female Prime Minister of the Muslim world, emphasising her contribu-tions to democracy and women`s rights.

Deputy Speaker NationalAssembly Syed Mir Ghulam Mustafa Shah echoed these sentiments, stressing that women comprise more than half of Pakistan`s population and their active involvement is crucial for sustainable development.

He reaffirmed that the Constitution guarantees women protection, access to education, employment and freedom to participate in political and social spheres.

He also paid tribute to Benazir Bhutto`s legacy, noting her struggle for democracy and leadership in shaping a progressive Pakistan. Mr Sadiq expressed confidence that the parliament would continue promoting policies for women`s empowerment, ensuring their greater participation in national development.