The Embassy of Pakistan in Washington D.C. hosts interfaith dialogue to build bridges of understanding.
“The government of Pakistan is making conscious efforts to bring people together and strengthen intersocietal linkages,” said Ambassador Masood Khan.
Ambassador Masood Khan made these remarks while addressing an esteemed group of faith leaders representing various religious groups.
The Embassy of Pakistan hosted a roundtable dialogue focused on fostering harmony and peace among various religious groups—the roundtable discussion centered on promoting peace and understanding among different religious communities and assimilated societies.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Masood Khan reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering unity and strengthening intersocietal bonds.
“Such gatherings,” Ambassador Khan stated, “provide a platform for broader perspectives about each other’s faith.” He urged participants to focus on commonalities and tear down barriers that divide us.
The dialogue included faith leaders, diplomats, representatives from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), think tanks, and civil society.
Addressing the issue of religious minorities, Ambassador Masood Khan called the unfortunate killing of minorities a crime against humanity. He assured the audience that the government is taking all steps to curb religious intolerance and stem the abuse of blasphemy laws.
Speaking to the occasion, former U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan, Anne Patterson, also expressed her optimism about curbing violent extremism through interfaith dialogue.
Mr. Daniel Spiro, representing the Jewish Islamic Dialogue Society (JIDS), emphasized the shared heritage of Abrahamic religions and the importance of treating all people with dignity.
Dr. Surinder Singh Gill, Director Sikhs of America organization commended Pakistan for facilitating Sikh pilgrimages and the Kartarpur Corridor initiative, a peace gesture also lauded by the international community.
Other speakers including Mr. Rizwan Jaka, Chairman of Adam Center, Mike Crowe, member of All Neighbors, Mr. Alok Srivastava from American Hindu Coalition and Ms. Karina Hou, social activist and renowned artist, and Ms. Ayesha Khan, a Pakistani American community leader also echoed similar sentiments, calling for healing and cooperation among societies.
The speakers emphasized the significance of interfaith dialogue and the government’s efforts to protect the rights of minorities in Pakistan. Despite the challenges, all faith leaders expressed confidence in continued progress and cooperation toward a more inclusive and equitable society.
The dialogue concluded with a renewed sense of hope for continued progress and cooperation.
The attendees expressed gratitude to Ambassador Masood Khan for convening this essential discussion, emphasizing its role in promoting harmony and strong bonds among all faiths.
Ambassador Masood Khan thanked all faith leaders for joining this important discussion. He praised Mr. Ilyas Masih and his organization, All Neighbors for supporting this initiative.
Washington, D.C., June 27, 2024
