Conference resolves to promote religious tolerance, coexistence

ISLAMABAD: Participants of an interfaith  harmony conference here unanimously enunciated their unwavering commitment to promote religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among all communities in Pakistan.

In a declaration signed by all participants of the day-long conference, they vehemently condemned all acts of sacrilege, vandalism, and violence against religious institutions and properties.

The participants expressed solidarity with the affected communities in Jaranwala, Faisalabad and pledged to help them rebuild and recover from the recent incidents of violence.

The conference vowed to protect the right of all religious communities to practice their faith without fear or discrimination and promote interfaith dialogue as a means to address misunderstandings and bridge gaps between communities.

The conference urged law enforcement agencies to enhance community policing efforts and promptly address interfaith violence and hate crimes.     

It also called upon media to uphold responsible journalism and avoid the spread of content that fuels religious hatred or incites violence.

The conference also proposed integrating interfaith education into educational curricula at all levels and expressed support to peaceful mechanisms of conflict resolution among different religious communities.

It declared that principles of unity and harmony are central to the vision of founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. 

The conference was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony. Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Aneeq Ahmed chaired the conference.

Representatives from all religious communities, scholars, ambassador and civil society attended the conference.

In his address on the occasion, Minister for Religious Affairs and interfaith Harmony said it is our responsibility to portray the true face of Pakistan where people are tolerant and peaceful.

He said religions teach patience, peace and brotherhood and Islam has made its followers duty-bound to respect the followers of other religions and ensure their protection. The Minister said we must be aware of the extremist elements which try to foment hatred in our peaceful society.

He said every Muslim in Pakistan felt and shared the pain of Christian brothers when churches and Christian properties were damaged in Jaranwala.