President Calls for Unity, Rejects Extremism at Paigham-e-Islam Conference in Islamabad

President Zardari Urges Muslim Scholars for Unity

President Asif Ali Zardari urged religious scholars from across the Muslim world to play an active role in promoting unity, countering extremism, and projecting Islam’s true message of peace.

Addressing the Sixth International Paigham-e-Islam Conference 2026 in Islamabad, attended by former prime minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and Senator Saleem Mandviwalla among Ulema, diplomats, and delegates from various countries including Palestine and Saudi Arabia, Zardari said the Muslim world was facing multiple challenges.

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. Both external misrepresentation and internal sectarianism were contributing to these challenges.

Zardari emphasized that Islam is a religion of peace, balance, and humanity, noting that the sanctity of human life lies at the core of its teachings. He called upon religious scholars to provide practical and intellectual guidance rooted in 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 forms. Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s foreign policy stance, highlighting the need for peaceful resolution of disputes in South Asia, including Jammu and Kashmir.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, calling for the establishment of an independent state of Palestine with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. He also stressed the importance of peace in Afghanistan, saying Afghan soil should not be used for terrorist activities against any country.

Zardari appreciated the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Mohammed bin Salman for their efforts in promoting unity within the Muslim Ummah and addressing regional challenges.

Chairman Pakistan Ulema Council, Maulana Tahir Ashrafi, said the conference, held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, highlighted Islam as a religion of peace, love, tolerance, and interfaith harmony. He also referred to Pakistan’s defence capabilities, stating that the country’s strategic strength was built through the efforts of leaders such as Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, and praised the leadership for safeguarding national interests.

Mufti-e-Azam of Palestine, Muhammad Ahmed Hussein, thanked Pakistan for hosting the conference and reiterated that the Palestine issue remained central to the Muslim Ummah. He appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and expressed hope that cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia would help strengthen unity among Muslim countries.

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Muslim countries and promoting ideological unity within the Ummah. He underscored the important role of Ulema in guiding society and promoting the true image of Islam globally.