Religious leaders reaffirm commitment to interfaith harmony during Peshawar church visit

PESHAWAR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 28th Jul, 2026) Religious scholars representing different schools of thought on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to promoting interfaith harmony, religious tolerance and national unity during a visit to the Cathedral Church in Peshawar under the banner of the National Paigham-e-Aman Committee Pakistan.

The delegation, led by Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, was received by church priest Humphrey Sarfraz Peter, who welcomed the visiting scholars and accompanied them on a tour of the church.

Speaking to the media, Ashrafi said the visit was intended to strengthen bonds of mutual respect with the Christian community and convey a united message of peace, coexistence and harmony among followers of all faiths.

He said Pakistan's Constitution guaranteed equal rights and religious freedom to every citizen, adding that safeguarding these rights was a shared national responsibility.

He stressed that islam rejected extremism and violence in the name of religion and called for collective efforts to counter intolerance and strengthen social cohesion.

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Ashrafi said the National Paigham-e-Aman Committee was actively working to promote dialogue among different religious communities, particularly during sensitive occasions such as Muharram, to ensure peace and encourage adherence to the agreed code of conduct.

He paid tribute to Pakistan's martyrs and security forces, saying religious scholars from all schools of thought stood united against terrorism and remained committed to preserving peace and stability in the country.

Members of the delegation reiterated that Islam emphasised the protection of minorities and respect for human dignity.

They said religious harmony, constitutional rights and equal opportunities for all citizens were essential for building a peaceful and prosperous Pakistan.

Representatives of the church administration welcomed the visit and described it as a positive step towards strengthening trust, understanding and cooperation between different religious communities.

They expressed hope that such engagements would continue to foster mutual respect and reinforce the message of peace across the country.