Paigham-e-Islam Conference to spotlight Muslim unity, Marka-e-Haq victory, Pakistan-Saudi defence pact

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ISLAMABAD, Tuesday, May 5, 2026 (WNP): The Sixth International Paigham-e-Islam Conference will be held on Wednesday at the Jinnah Convention Centre, bringing together prominent religious scholars, intellectuals and representatives from across Pakistan and the Muslim world to deliberate on key challenges facing the Ummah and promote unity, peace and interfaith harmony.

Prime Minister’s Coordinator for National Paigham-e-Aman Committee and Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi, addressing a press briefing, said the conference is taking place at a critical juncture marked by complex global developments and challenges confronting Muslim countries, alongside Pakistan’s ongoing economic and diplomatic efforts.

He said the conference, under the broader framework of Paigham-e-Pakistan, would highlight a unified narrative against extremism and terrorism while reinforcing the message of coexistence, tolerance and global peace.

Ashrafi said this year’s theme, “Contemporary Issues of the Muslim World: Pakistan, Gulf Cooperation, and the Collective Stance on Palestine and Kashmir,” would guide deliberations on regional and international developments, particularly the role of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in fostering stability and cohesion within the Muslim world.

He said the conference would also reflect on Pakistan’s recent achievements, including the success of Marka-e-Haq, Bunyan-ul-Marsoos, terming it milestone that strengthened national resolve and reinforced Pakistan’s standing as a responsible and resilient state.

Ashrafi said participants would discuss the evolving geopolitical situation, including Palestine and Kashmir, while emphasizing the need for a unified and coordinated stance of the Muslim Ummah on key international issues.

Highlighting Pakistan’s growing strategic engagement, he said the conference would underscore the importance of Pakistan–Saudi Arabia Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement and expanding bilateral cooperation, describing it as a reflection of deep-rooted trust and shared objectives for regional peace and stability.

He said scholars and experts from Saudi Arabia, other Islamic countries and Europe would present recommendations in a bid to strengthen unity within the Muslim Ummah and promoting constructive engagement at the global level.

Ashrafi said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would address the conference, while President Asif Ali Zardari would host a related event at Aiwan-e-Sadr, adding that the participation of international dignitaries would further enhance the significance of the gathering.

He said the conference would reiterate a unanimous stance against extremism and terrorism, highlighting Islam’s message of peace, moderation and harmony, as envisioned in the Paigham-e-Pakistan initiative.

Ashrafi said Pakistan has consistently played a responsible and proactive role in promoting dialogue and cooperation, adding that Islamabad is increasingly being recognized internationally as a centre of peace and stability.

He said Pakistan, in close coordination with Saudi Arabia, continues efforts to strengthen unity among Muslim countries and counter attempts to create divisions within the Ummah, adding that recent diplomatic engagements reflect growing convergence on key regional issues.

Ashrafi reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering stance on Palestine and Kashmir and expressed solidarity with the people of both regions, emphasizing that collective efforts were essential to ensure peace and stability in the Muslim world.

He expressed confidence that the conference would send a strong global message of unity, reinforce Pakistan’s diplomatic achievements, and contribute to shaping a collective strategy to address the evolving challenges facing the Muslim Ummah.