Bilawal pledges more steps for women empowerment

KARACHI: Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Wednesday pledged that the party will initiate more steps for the empowerment of women in Pakistan.

In his message on the eve of International Women’s Day being observed across the world, Bilawal endorsed the United Nation’s 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals for women.

Bilawal said that Pakistan has the distinct record in the world for electing Benazir Bhutto as the first ever Muslim woman as prime minister of any Islamic country in the world.

He said that Benazir led the weak segments of the society especially the concerted efforts for women empowerment and gender equality in Pakistan.

“From the establishment of first women bank, induction of women in higher judiciary and separate police stations for women to distribution of land among landless women peasants, Benazir Bhutto took every possible effort to promote women into the national mainstream as equal partners in progress,” he added.

Bilawal said that PPP continued her vision and launched Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) after coming into power in 2008, which has been lauded worldwide by international forums.

He said that PPP has established a full-fledged women development department in Sindh and awarded party tickets to women defeating their powerful and influential rivals to enter parliament.

He further said he believes that every Pakistani girl has the potential to become Benazir Bhutto if provided opportunities and environment.

“PPP will continue its struggle to achieve gender equality and empowerment of every Pakistani girl and woman ensuring inclusive quality education and health facilities for them,” he added.

He further pointed out that PPP has enacted several legislation for protection of women against any exploitation and perpetual atrocities.

“PPP will bring in more legislation for the cause of women and their empowerment in future also,” he concluded.