Federal National Harmony Minister Akram Masih Gill said on Friday that his ministry was created to strengthen inter-faith harmony as well as for the protection of the rights of minorities.
He was speaking as the chief guest at an inter-faith dialogue attended by Pontifical Lateran University Faculty of Philosophy Dean Prof Gianfranco Basti and Pontifical Lateran University Director Prof Mobeen Shahid among others, at the Punjab University Vice-Chancellor Dr Mujahid Kamran’s office. Gill said his ministry could arrange scholarships for students and teachers to visit the Pontifical Lateran University. Prof Gianfranco said his department was committed to deepening the understanding of scientific and philosophical concepts. He stressed that sustained inter-faith dialogue is vital for harmony across the world. Dr Kamran said different methods, like research, student exchange programmes, seminars and lectures could be used for promoting inter-cultural and religious harmony. He stated that the Punjab University would like to be an active member of such initiatives. PU faculty members, including Prof Dr Rafiq Ahmad, Khawaja Amjad Seed, Dr Shahid Kamal, Prof Abid, Shumaila Akhater, Rahat Naveed and Prof Abdul Hafiz also attended the function. Later, the vice-chancellor presented souvenirs to the members of the visiting delegation.