Rich tributes were paid to slain Pakistani leader Benazir Bhutto, the first woman prime minister in the Muslim World, at a seminar and photo exhibition held at Pakistan International School (English Section) here this week to commemorate the first anniversary of her death. Representatives from the Turkish, Afghanistan and Indonesian consulates, media personnel, Saudi dignitaries, diplomats from the Pakistani Consulate General, several community members, school staff and students were present at the ceremony. Bhutto was killed in a gun and suicide bomb attack as she was leaving a rally in Rawalpindi, just outside the Pakistani capital of Islamabad on Dec. 27, 2007. The services, sacrifices, and efforts of Benazir Bhutto for the cause of democracy and humanity were acknowledged with high esteem. The objective of holding this ceremony was also to educate young students about her life and struggles. School principal Sehar Kamran said students may gain knowledge about the sacrifices of the Bhutto family, its contributions to humanity, education, democracy and peace in the world. “Our objective was to create awareness among Saudis about her mission and commitment as well.” Pakistani Minister of State for Religious Affairs, Shagufta Jummani, read a message from President Asif Ali Zardari. She said Benazir has always been a strong supporter of a peaceful nation and always opposed terrorist activities within and outside the country. “Benazir brought extreme positive changes to the lives of women.” Women were given full rights as per the Muslim rules and regulations, Jummani added. Yasmin Suleman, Vice Principal, read the message of Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani on the occasion. She said: “We will take the nation forward as per the dreams of Benazir Bhutto.”
