Pakistani President For Religious Harmony

Islamabad, Dec 9, IRNA – Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain Sunday urged religious scholars to follow the teachings of Islam to promote harmony‚ brotherhood‚ peace and tranquility in the country. Addressing a national conference on interfaith harmony in Islamabad the President said that Allah Almighty has bestowed us an independent country where “we can freely practice our faith‚ but unfortunately the country has been in the grip of terrorism‚ extremism and sectarianism for some time.” He said Islam teaches its followers to work for brotherhood and religious harmony. He said according to Islamic teachings‚ no non-Muslim can be forced to embrace Islam. “We should follow the philosophy and footprints of Sufi saints to promote the soft image of Islam in the world,” President Mamnoon Hussain said. He said if “we follow the true spirit of tolerance and act upon the teachings of Prophet Muhammad‚ (Peace Be Upon Him)‚ no doubt we will be leading the world in economic‚ political and social spheres. He criticized elements who are behind sectarian attacks and are bent upon to create rift in the ranks of the Muslims. He also called upon the people to frustrate designs of those who create hatred among the Muslims. Religious scholars in their speeches stressed the need for unity and to shun differences on minor issues. They condemned killing of Muslims in terror and sectarian attacks./end