PESHAWAR, Nov 21 (APP): A high-level delegation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland called on Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi at Governor House Peshawar on Friday.
The delegation was led by Archbishop Dr. Tapio Luoma and included Rev. Dr. Kimmo Kierylainen, Director of the Department of International Relations; Rev. Laura Hovonen, Advisor on Interfaith Relations; and Rev. Dr. Juha Merilainen, Religious Advisor to the Archbishop. MPA Zarkawar and Bishop Humphrey Sarfraz Peters were also present on the occasion.
During the meeting, matters related to governance, administrative affairs, and the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa came under discussion.
The delegation briefed the Governor on the Church’s efforts to promote peace, brotherhood, and respect for humanity, saying that churches worldwide have always advocated harmony and compassion.
Welcoming the delegation, Governor Kundi said Pakistan particularly Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is committed to fostering religious harmony, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue.
He praised the Christian community for its valuable services in various sectors, especially education, adding that an environment of brotherhood and interfaith coexistence prevails across the province.
The Governor reaffirmed that the rights of minorities are fully protected throughout Pakistan.
He also highlighted the challenges KP faces due to cross-border incursions and terrorism originating from Afghanistan, saying that all segments of society, including the Christian community, have been affected by militancy.
Governor Kundi presented commemorative shields to the visiting delegation at the conclusion of the meeting.
APP/ash/