Religious Leaders Unite to Champion Peace and Harmony as Core National Mission
In a significant address to the media in Lahore, Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council, Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, underscored that fostering peace, love, and tolerance across the nation remains the collective mission of religious leadership. He emphasized that all segments of society must collaborate to transform Pakistan into a cradle of peace and moderation, reinforcing the country's foundational values.
Strengthening National Economy and Countering Extremism
Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi highlighted Pakistan's emergence as a strong country in terms of defense by 2025, but stressed that the current year should focus on bolstering the national economy. He described Paigham-e-Pakistan as a unanimously agreed national document, reiterating its crucial role in countering extremism and promoting social harmony. This document serves as a guiding framework for national unity and resilience against divisive forces.
Minorities Enjoy Freedom and Contribute to Stability
Speaking on the same occasion, Bishop of Lahore Nadeem Kamran affirmed that minorities in Pakistan enjoy complete freedom and equal rights, with the Christian community fully prepared to cooperate in every possible way for peace and stability. He emphasized the importance of keeping the flame of peace alive and working collectively to elevate Pakistan among the world's best countries.
Positive Gestures and Interfaith Harmony Initiatives
Bishop Nadeem Kamran appreciated the gesture of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for expressing solidarity with the Christian community on Christmas. He also noted positive interfaith messages, such as the Field Marshal visiting a Rawalpindi church, and the President of Pakistan and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif participating in Christmas celebrations and cutting cakes. These initiatives, he said, help present Pakistan's positive and true image to the world, showcasing a nation committed to inclusivity and mutual respect.
Overall, the statements from both religious leaders highlight a unified call for national cohesion, economic focus, and interfaith harmony as key pillars for Pakistan's progress and global standing.
