PESHAWAR, Feb 19 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi has said that religious scholars have a vital role in promoting unity, harmony and solidarity in the country, especially in the prevailing circumstances faced by Pakistan.
He expressed these views while addressing a reception and dinner hosted in honour of the members of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee at Governor House Peshawar, in connection with the advent of Ramazan.
The ceremony was also addressed by Chairman Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and Khateeb of Badshahi Mosque Lahore, Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabeer Azad, Chairman Council of Islamic Ideology, Allama Raghib Naeemi, central leader of Shia Ulema Council, Allama Shabbir Maisami, and noted religious scholar Dr Qibla Ayaz.
The Governor said that in the current situation, the responsibilities of the pulpit and prayer niche had multiplied manifold. He congratulated the members of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and the provincial Ministry of Religious Affairs on the commencement of Ramazan across the country on the same day, expressing hope that Eid-ul-Fitr would also be celebrated nationwide on a single day.
“Today, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has united the entire nation,” he said, adding that forces hostile to Pakistan were trying to create divisions.
Referring to the security situation, he said that despite challenges and sacrifices rendered by security forces, police, and civilians in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the province stood united against terrorism.
He expressed confidence that with the support of the people and the efforts of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies, Pakistan would emerge as a cradle of peace.
He said Pakistan desired good relations with neighbouring countries and maintained balanced ties with major world powers. He added that the country was moving towards progress and prosperity and its future was bright.
Speaking on the occasion, Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabeer Azad said Ramazan brought a message of unity and brotherhood. He appreciated the Governor for inviting members of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee to Governor House, calling it a positive gesture for promoting inter-sect harmony and peace.
He said religious scholars across the country strongly condemned acts of terrorism in different parts of the country and reiterated their resolve to stand by the armed forces and the state against anti-state elements.
Allama Raghib Naeemi said it was a matter of satisfaction that the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee had successfully ensured the beginning of Ramazan on the same day across the country. He said the holy month was a time for patience, compassion and seeking Allah’s blessings.
Dr Qibla Ayaz emphasized the need for tolerance and restraint during Ramazan and urged the nation to set aside sectarian differences and work collectively to foil the designs of hostile elements.
Dr Shabbir Maisami said Islam was a religion of unity and collective worship, and that enemies often targeted places of worship to create discord.
He reiterated that the people of Pakistan, including scholars of all schools of thought, stood united against anti-Islam and anti-Pakistan forces.