ISLAMABAD: Federal authorities have announced plans to initiate a series of meetings with leaders from various religious communities to enhance efforts against terrorism and religious intolerance.
Interior Minister Senator Mohsin Raza Naqvi and Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain held a detailed discussion with a delegation led by Ruet-i-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad on Friday.
A joint declaration adopted during the meeting emphasized the importance of interfaith and inter-sect harmony, as well as national unity.
Interior Minister Naqvi underscored the need to prevent the misuse of Islam and to combat terrorism, stating, “We are all Pakistanis, and Pakistan comes first.” He clarified that anyone who takes up arms against the state is considered a terrorist, a stance supported by both Islam and the Constitution of Pakistan.
Naqvi highlighted the necessity of national unity to tackle terrorism, stating that only through collaboration with scholars could the nation overcome these challenges. He urged those opposing the state to lay down their arms and respect the Constitution.
The interior minister announced plans for federal ministers to visit each province, meet with chief ministers and ulema, and counter terrorist narratives. He emphasized that religious scholars and leaders should act as true representatives of their faiths and work to prevent exploitation in the name of religion.
Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain emphasized the need to protect the new generation from violence, calling for cooperation among the government, institutions, and scholars to ensure a safe future.
The joint declaration, known as “Paigham-i-Pakistan,” rejected extremist narratives and affirmed that Islam is a religion of peace that promotes respect for humanity and a violence-free society. It also highlighted the importance of interfaith and inter-sect harmony and national unity.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including the federal interior secretary, Islamabad chief commissioner, inspector general of police, and deputy commissioner, as well as numerous religious leaders representing various faiths.
