Muharram teaches sacrifice, patience, national unity: Ashrafi

LAHORE, Jun 15 (APP): Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) here Monday organized a seminar titled “Ehtram-e-Muharram-ul-Haram aur Faroogh-e-Aman” to highlight the importance of religious harmony, tolerance, national unity and peace during the sacred month of Muharram-ul-Haram.

The seminar was chaired by LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol, while Chairman Pakistan Ulema Council, Allama Tahir Ashrafi, attended as the Chief Guest.

Convener Standing Committee Hafiz Asim Makhdoom, committee members Shahzad Khan, Hamid Raza, Hafiz Muhammad Zahid, Dr. Ahmad Khawar Shahzad, Abdul Ghaffar Ropri, Arshad Ali Abdi, Aslam Siddiqui and Dr. Badar Munir, along with a large number of businessmen and representatives from different schools of thought, attended the seminar.

Addressing the ceremony, Allama Tahir Ashrafi highlighted the significance of Muharram-ul-Haram as a month of sacrifice, patience, steadfastness and unity. He said, the teachings and sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) provide a timeless message of truth, justice, courage and service to humanity.

He stressed that all segments of society must work collectively to promote peace and counter elements seeking to create division, hatred and discord.

He said that Pakistan belongs to all its citizens and that national unity is the strongest response to those who wish to weaken the country through sectarian or social divisions.

Allama Tahir Ashrafi appreciated the role of the armed forces, religious scholars and the people of Pakistan in safeguarding national interests and maintaining internal stability. He emphasized that Islam teaches tolerance, moderation and respect for humanity, and these principles must guide social and national conduct.

He also lauded the Lahore Chamber office-bearers for organizing the seminar and taking an active role in promoting peace, harmony and constructive dialogue. He said that the business community is an important stakeholder in national development and can play a significant role in fostering social cohesion and economic stability.

On this occasion, LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol said that peace, unity and mutual respect are indispensable for social cohesion, political stability and economic progress. He said that Muharram-ul-Haram teaches patience, sacrifice and respect for differing views, values that are essential for building a strong and prosperous nation.

He said that Pakistan has made significant progress over the past year, particularly after Marka-e-Haq, which strengthened the country’s image and credibility at the international level. He added that the nation has demonstrated resilience, unity and determination in challenging circumstances, earning greater respect in the global community.

Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol said that while national security and international recognition are important achievements, the next major challenge is economic transformation. He stressed that Pakistan now needs to focus on economic growth, industrial development, exports, investment promotion and job creation. He said that a peaceful and stable environment is a prerequisite for economic prosperity and sustainable development.

The LCCI President urged religious scholars, business leaders, civil society and government institutions to work together to promote harmony, discourage sectarianism and strengthen the spirit of national unity. He said that economic progress and social peace go hand in hand and both are essential for a brighter future for Pakistan.

The participants underscored the importance of national unity, religious tolerance and collective efforts to ensure peace and stability in the country. They appreciated the role of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry in promoting harmony, interfaith understanding and constructive dialogue on important national issues and expressed their commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at strengthening peace, unity and economic progress in Pakistan.