ISLAMABAD, Wednesday, May 6, 2026 (WNP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday called upon religious scholars from across the Muslim world to play a proactive role in promoting unity, countering extremism, and projecting the true message of Islam as a religion of peace.
Addressing the concluding session of the Sixth International Paigham-e-Islam Conference 2026 at Aiwan-e-Sadr, attended by former prime minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, Ulema, diplomats, and delegates from various countries including Palestine and Saudi Arabia, the president said the Muslim world was facing multiple challenges, including conflicts, instability, and divisions that required collective wisdom and unity to overcome.
He observed that recent developments in West Asia had exposed deep fault lines affecting regional stability and economic conditions, while also distorting the global perception of Islam. He noted that both external misrepresentation and internal sectarian divisions were contributing to these challenges.
President Zardari emphasized that Islam is a religion of peace, balance, and humanity, adding that the sanctity of human life lies at the core of its teachings. He urged religious scholars to provide practical and intellectual guidance based on Islamic principles to promote harmony, tolerance, and coexistence.
Referring to Pakistan’s experience, he said the country had made significant sacrifices in the fight against extremism and remained committed to eliminating violence in all its forms.
He reiterated Pakistan’s principled stance on regional issues, stressing the need for peaceful resolution of disputes in South Asia, including Jammu and Kashmir.
The president reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and called for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. He also highlighted the importance of peace in Afghanistan, stating that Afghan soil should not be used for terrorist activities against any country.
He appreciated the leadership of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for their efforts in promoting unity within the Muslim Ummah and addressing regional challenges.
Responding to queries, the president underscored the need to counter the misrepresentation of Islam, noting that modern technology has made it easier to understand Islam and its teachings.
He said Pakistanis are globally recognized as a nation of scholars, doctors, and engineers, expressing confidence that the country, along with the Muslim Ummah, would rise again to progress and prosperity.
