ISLAMABAD, Friday, May 09, 2025 (WNP): Pakistan on Friday welcomed the appointment of Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), as the UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia — a landmark decision pursuant to UN General Assembly Resolution 78/264 titled “Measures to Combat Islamophobia.”

In a statement issued by the Foreign Office, Pakistan hailed the appointment as a historic milestone in the global effort to counter rising Islamophobia, hatred, intolerance, and discrimination against Muslims. “This development marks a significant advance in the United Nations’ commitment to addressing one of the most pressing human rights challenges of our time,” the statement said.

The Foreign Office noted that Pakistan, on behalf of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), had played a leading role in initiating and securing the adoption of the resolution that mandated the appointment of the Special Envoy. The resolution builds upon Pakistan’s earlier initiative that led to the UN’s proclamation of March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia through Resolution 76/254.

Calling the appointment “timely and essential,” the statement emphasized that Islamophobia has reached deeply troubling levels, manifested through coordinated hate campaigns, attacks on mosques, violence against Muslim communities, and hostile actions toward Muslim-majority countries — often perpetrated by entities claiming adherence to democratic and secular values.

“These acts, fuelled by supremacist ideologies and populist narratives, threaten international peace and security and violate the fundamental principles enshrined in the UN Charter,” the statement warned.

Pakistan underscored the need for coordinated international action to promote respect for religious diversity, foster mutual understanding, and protect the dignity and rights of all communities. It reaffirmed its commitment to leading global efforts against Islamophobia and promoting interfaith harmony.

The Foreign Office also expressed anticipation for the Secretary-General’s forthcoming comprehensive Action Plan to Combat Islamophobia, which is expected to provide a strategic roadmap for global initiatives. Pakistan said it looks forward to working closely with the Special Envoy in advancing a world rooted in tolerance, coexistence, and justice.

In a separate development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt congratulations to the global Catholic community on the election of Pope Leo XIV, calling it a “new chapter of hope and inspiration for millions around the world.”

In a message shared on social media platform X, the prime minister said Pakistan deeply values its relationship with the Holy See and remains committed to promoting interfaith harmony, mutual respect, and the collective pursuit of peace and human dignity.

Cardinal Robert Prevost, originally from Chicago, was elected as the 267th Pope by 133 cardinals in a historic conclave on Thursday. He is the first American to lead the 1.4 billion-member Roman Catholic Church and has taken the name Leo XIV, following the death of Pope Francis last month.

Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, also congratulated the Christian world on Pope Leo XIV’s election, describing it as a moment of deep spiritual significance. “At a time when the world faces profound moral and humanitarian challenges, there is an urgent need for strong, principled leadership,” he said.

The minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to fostering interfaith harmony and building bridges across religious communities. “We deeply cherish our ties with the Christian community and look forward to working together for global peace and coexistence,” he added.

Sardar Yousaf expressed hope that the new pontiff would play a transformative role in advancing dialogue, reconciliation, and unity across faiths. “The world needs powerful moral voices, and we trust Pope Leo XIV will be among them,” he said.