Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has said that the country’s youth have rejected extremism and hatred.
He said this while addressing a two-day international peace dialogue in Narowal on Tuesday. The theme of the dialogue is “Building Bridges for Lasting Peace in the Region.”
The objective of the dialogue is to promote conversation, mutual understanding, and cooperation among different communities, cultures, and countries in order to prevent hatred and establish long-term peace, creating connections for a stable future.
Speakers from various countries, including Kazakhstan, Maldives, Jordan, Morocco, and Saudi Arabia, are participating in the dialogue.
The Federal Minister thanked all the distinguished guests who arrived in Narowal to attend the dialogue.
Ahsan Iqbal said, “Young people of Pakistan are ambassadors of peace in the country.” He stated that he is pleased to witness the successful holding of this international dialogue in Narowal. He said that, by the grace of Allah Almighty, these peace dialogues would be held every year.
Member of the Provincial Assembly of Punjab and Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Ahmad Iqbal Chaudhry said he would like to congratulate the entire team of the University of Narowal for organizing a dialogue on this important topic. He said, “Today, it is very important to talk about peace.”
Ahmad Iqbal said, “There is a need to discuss promoting tolerance among ourselves. It has become easy to incite people against others through hateful content and speeches. “People of different religions live in Pakistan, and we must respect each other’s beliefs and opinions.”
International Quran Research Association President, Dr. Safi Kaskas, in his video message, said, “The establishment of Narowal University is a gift for the children of this area. There is a lot of talent among young people and that we need to provide them with better opportunities.” He added, “Education is the most essential thing for our youth.”
He emphasized following the Quran and Hadith in a true sense to achieve success in this world and the hereafter.
He further said that collective efforts are required to establish peace and build a better society.
He also appreciated the vision and approach of Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal.
Ezzitouna University, Tunisia, President Prof. Dr. Abdullatif Bouazizi said, “We have a very strong and positive relationship with Pakistan.” He emphasized learning from the teachings of Allama Iqbal. He said, “Tolerance, justice, and fairness will bring improvement to society.” He stressed that it is highly important to eliminate extremism.
He stated, “People gathering in Narowal from all over the world is a sign of the success of this dialogue.”
Gulsana Kozhabay from the Republic of Kazakhstan said she is very happy to be there. She said that everyone must play a role in promoting peace. She stated, “There is a need to learn according to the modern era and then act upon it.” She added that the establishment of peace in the region would benefit everyone.
