ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the need to promote a strong culture of reading across Pakistan, stressing that books remain a timeless source of knowledge, wisdom, and intellectual growth essential for building an enlightened and progressive society.
In his message on World Book Day, the prime minister extended heartfelt congratulations to readers, writers, authors, publishers, teachers, and students in Pakistan and around the world for their dedication to reading and love of books.
He paid special tribute to Pakistan’s writers and educators for their invaluable contributions in shaping the intellectual development of the nation, noting that books introduce readers to new ideas, diverse perspectives, and cultures while broadening intellectual horizons and deepening understanding of the world.
The prime minister said books play a vital role in nurturing informed minds, promoting critical thinking, and fostering values such as empathy, peace, and tolerance, qualities essential for a peaceful and progressive society.
Highlighting the importance of reading in the digital age, he observed that despite easier access to information through modern technology, the role of books and reading had become even more significant for intellectual development and creativity.
Shehbaz Sharif underscored that Pakistan’s rich literary traditions and intellectual heritage remained a cornerstone of national development, adding that writers and thinkers from classical to modern times had rendered remarkable services that continued to inspire future generations.
He stressed the importance of encouraging reading habits among youth and ensuring access to quality books so they could grow into informed and responsible citizens.
The prime minister noted that the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Book Foundation were actively working to promote reading culture, support authors and publishers, and ensure the availability of quality books at affordable prices.
Calling upon youth, teachers, parents, and educational institutions to play their collective role in fostering a culture of reading, he urged the nation to renew its commitment to promoting literacy, improving access to knowledge, and strengthening appreciation for books to help build an informed and progressive Pakistan.