A delegation from the Pakistan Branch of the Muslim Council of Elders visited the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony in the capital city, Islamabad. The purpose of the visit was to discuss ways to enhance joint cooperation in spreading and promoting the values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence.
During the meeting, both sides emphasized the urgent need to confront violence, religious hatred, and all forms of religious extremism. They also discussed the importance of correcting misconceptions among young people and promoting the moderate and tolerant teachings of Islam. Mr. Muhammad Arshad, the cooperating director of the Pakistan Branch of the Muslim Council of Elders, along with Mr. Aizaz Ali Shah, the Branch Media Officer presented these ideas. The introductory presentation covered the Muslim Council of Elders and its initiatives aimed at spreading and promoting values such as tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and harmony between Muslim and non-Muslim communities. Additionally, he also highlighted the principles outlined in the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by His Eminence the Grand Imam, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, and His Holiness Pope Francis, Pope of the Catholic Church in 2019 in the Emirati capital, Abu Dhabi. This document is considered a symbol of human unity, emphasizing the commitment of world religions to peace and peaceful coexistence among diverse cultures and peoples.
In response, Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Federal Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, and Mr. Hafiz Abdul Quddus, Director of the Ministry Research and Reference Department, expressed their profound appreciation for the impactful role played by the Muslim Council of Elders in disseminating and solidifying the values of coexistence and peace on local, regional, and global levels. They underscored the significance of promoting these values within Pakistani society to foster greater harmony and understanding among diverse religions and cultures.
It is noteworthy that the Council of Muslim Elders is an independent international body led by His Eminence the Grand Imam, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif. Established in Abu Dhabi in 2014, its membership comprises a group of scholars, experts, and distinguished figures within the Islamic community known for their wisdom, justice, independence, and moderation. The council aims to contribute to the enhancement of peace in both Muslim and non-Muslim societies, mitigating the intensity of unrest, wars, and conflicts. Additionally, its mission involves promoting and strengthening the values of dialogue, tolerance, peace, and human coexistence.
