Today, we join the international community in observing World Interfaith Harmony Week. This week serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among diverse religious communities.

Pakistan, envisioned by our founding father Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah as a sanctuary for all faiths, remains steadfast in its constitutional oath to protect every citizen’s right to belief, dignity, and equality. Our faith—rooted in Islam’s timeless teachings of justice, mercy, and respect for all creation—compels us to lead by example. We continue to uphold these values through policies that promote inclusivity and social cohesion. To those who sow hatred, we respond with dialogue. To those who preach fear, we answer with courage. To those who divide, we build bridges.

Our government is committed to fostering an environment of acceptance, tolerance, and mutual respect. The groundbreaking Interfaith Harmony Policy and Strategy of Religious Tolerance are now in motion, targeting hate speech at its core, safeguarding every temple, church, and shrine.

Yet, we recognize that challenges persist. Extremism and divisive rhetoric, remain threats to our social fabric. At a time when the world faces growing challenges of intolerance and division, it is essential to reaffirm our collective commitment to peace and unity.

On this occasion, I call upon religious scholars, community leaders, and citizens to play their role in strengthening the bonds of brotherhood.

May this week inspire us all to embrace the values of tolerance and cooperation, ensuring a peaceful and prosperous future for all.