Lahore: Former national women hockey player and Pakistan's first woman Olympics volunteer Rabia Qadir has lauded the Punjab government's initiatives aimed at promoting women empowerment. In an interview with Radio Pakistan's correspondent Qasim Bukhari in connection with International Women's Day, she highlighted the positive transformations occurring in Punjab due to supportive policies for women.

According to Radio Pakistan, Rabia Qadir emphasized that women in Punjab are being encouraged to actively contribute to various sectors of society. She noted a significant increase in women's participation in sports, education, and other professional fields, which reflects a positive societal shift towards women's empowerment in the province.

Rabia Qadir further pointed out the vital roles women are playing in leadership and governance within the province. She highlighted that the Chief Minister of Punjab, the Senior Minister, and the Provincial Minister for Information are women who are successfully managing significant responsibilities.

She underscored the importance of women's progress for the broader social uplift and the overall development and prosperity of the country. Rabia Qadir expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz for organizing the Khelta Punjab Pink Games, noting the participation of over 3,400 female athletes as a sign of growing interest in sports among women.

Additionally, she praised the Chief Minister's efforts towards women's protection and welfare, including the establishment of a Virtual Women Police Station under the Safe Cities Authority and the provision of hostel facilities for women.