US Ambassador to Pakistan Richard Olson met with several prominent Shia and Sunni leaders at the Iqbal International Institute for Research and Dialogue at the International Islamic University (IIU) for a discussion on the need to promote religious freedom and reduce sectarian tension in Pakistan. IIU Academics Vice President Dr Mumtaz Ahmad hosted the event, and participants included IIU President Dr Ahmad Yousaf al-Draiweesh, Democracy, Human Rights, and Labour Assistant Secretary of State Michael Posner and Ambassador Olson. The ambassador lauded the religious leaders for fostering mutual respect and harmony among Pakistan’s religiously diverse community and sects. He said the US believes in freedom to practice one’s religion without fear of intimidation, death, coercion or any form of reprisal. “Religious freedom is fundamental to human dignity, and the United States stands committed to working with Pakistan’s government, religious leaders, and people to uphold religious freedom,” he said.
