President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to protecting the rights, cultures, traditions and well-being of indigenous peoples.

In his message on the occasion of the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, being observed today, the President said the day provides an opportunity to recognise the contributions of Indigenous Peoples and acknowledge the knowledge, traditions and practices they have preserved and passed on through generations.

The President said Pakistan's rich cultural mosaic includes communities such as the Kalash and the diverse peoples of the northern mountains. It spans from Gilgit to Gwadar and from the plains to the deserts of Cholistan and Thar.

He reaffirmed respect for the rights, cultures, traditions and well-being of Indigenous People and support for efforts to ensure that their knowledge is respected, their voices are heard and their communities have access to the opportunities and services they need to live with dignity and security.