LAHORE: The World Council of Religions-Pakistan (WCR) organised a special conference on Thursday in Lahore to mark the International Peace Day just ahead of Islamic month of Muharram-ul-Haram.
Hundred of minority leaders, journalists, students and academics joined over 300 scholars at the conference, titled ‘Together for Peace’ where a unanimous declaration was presented amid an award ceremony.
Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi presided over the conference, while Almi Ittehad Ahle Sunnat wal Jamaat head Illyas Ghuman and Provincial Minister for Minorities Affairs Khalid Tahir Sindhu shed light on causes of unrest in Pakistan.
Addressing the conference, Ashrafi called for cooperation to bring enduring peace to country, saying no religion allows extremism and violence.
Praising the efforts of minorities (Christians, Sikhs, Hindus and others) in Pakistan for upholding sanctity of Islamic beliefs, the PUC chairman said Pakistan is for all and it is our mutual responsibility to protect every religious minority in the country.
He urged the government to ensure peace in the holy month, which starts from tonight (Thursday) while stressing respect for everyone’s faith.
Khalil Tahir Sindhu said that every human deserved to be paid respect beyond his religion. He termed religious extremism a conspiracy aimed at fanning bigotry to damage national integrity and stability.
Ilyas Ghuman, sharing his view, termed peace and unity vital for development in Pakistan. He called upon the participants to play their role for reconciliation and raise awareness among their respective groups to downgrade the menace of extremism.
