Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized on Friday the need for dialogue, understanding, tolerance and cooperation between various religious communities to promote interreligious harmony.
In a message about the week of world interreligious harmony that is celebrated from February 1 to 7, Prime Minister Shehbaz said: “This week serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of dialogue, understanding and cooperation between various religious communities “
“Pakistan, imagined by our founding father Quaid-I-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah as a sanctuary for all religions, remains firm in his constitutional oath to protect the right of each citizen to belief, dignity and equality. Our faith, rooted in the unmporal teachings of justice, mercy and respect for all the creation of Islam, compuls us to lead with the example. “
Social cohesion
The prime minister said that the government continued to maintain these values through policies that promote social inclusion and cohesion.
“For those who sow hate, we respond with dialogue. For those who preach fear, we respond with courage. For those who divide, we build bridges, ”he said.
The government, he said, was committed to promoting an environment of acceptance, tolerance and mutual respect. “The innovative policy of interreligious harmony and the strategy of religious tolerance are now in motion, directing the hate discourse in its nucleus, safeguarding each temple, church and sanctuary,” he added.
“However, we recognize that the challenges persist. Extremism and divisive rhetoric remain threats to our social fabric. At a time when the world faces increasing challenges of intolerance and division, it is essential to reaffirm our collective commitment to peace and unity, ”said the prime minister.
On the occasion, the prime minister asked religious scholars, community leaders and citizens who play their role in strengthening the Brotherhood ties.
“That this week inspires us all to adopt tolerance and cooperation values, ensuring a peaceful and prosperous future for all,” he added.
PM greets the people of China
Later, the prime minister at a meeting with Chinese ambassador Jiang Zaidong greeted him and transmitted his good wishes to Chinese leadership, as well as the fraternal people of China, including all Chinese citizens who reside in Pakistan, while celebrating the Chinese New Year .
According to Prime Minister’s office, the prime minister expressed the hope that this New Year further strengthens the ties of friendship between Pakistan and China and bring prosperity to the peoples of both countries.
The issues related to economic and security cooperation between the two countries during the meeting were also discussed, which took place at the PM house.
The ambassador thanked the prime minister and the people of Pakistan for extending his warm wishes to the Chinese government and his people in this cheerful joy.
Posted in Dawn, February 1, 2025