WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Masood Khan said that Pakistan is stepping up efforts to bring people together and strengthen inter-societal linkages.
The Ambassador was speaking during a roundtable discussion with faith leaders representing various religions. Hosted by the embassy, the event focused on promoting peace and mutual understanding among different religious groups and integrated societies.
“These gatherings,” Ambassador Masood Khan stated, “offer a platform to deepen our understanding of each other’s beliefs.” He urged participants to focus on shared values and dismantle barriers that divide people.
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 concerns about religious minorities, Ambassador Masood Khan condemned attacks on minorities as crimes against humanity. He assured the audience of the government’s efforts to combat religious intolerance and misuse of blasphemy laws.
Former U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Anne Patterson remarked that interfaith dialogue can mitigate violent extremism. Daniel Spiro from the Jewish Islamic Dialogue Society (JIDS) underscored the common heritage of Abrahamic religions and stressed the importance of dignified treatment for all.
Dr. Surinder Singh Gill, Director of Sikhs for America, praised Pakistan for facilitating Sikh pilgrimages and the Kartarpur Corridor initiative, recognized globally as a gesture of peace.
Additional speakers, including Rizwan Jaka of the Adam Center, Mike Crowe of All Neighbors, Alok Srivastava from the American Hindu Coalition, and social activist and artist Ms. Karina Hou, along with Pakistani American community leader Ms. Ayesha Khan, echoed calls for reconciliation and cooperation among societies.
The speakers highlighted the significance of interfaith dialogue and Pakistan’s efforts to safeguard minority rights. Despite challenges, faith leaders expressed optimism about ongoing progress towards a more inclusive and just society.
