Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called upon religious scholars to play their role in promoting unity, brotherhood, and peace in society in line with the teachings and character of Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Addressing the annual International Seerat-un-Nabi Conference in Islamabad today, he emphasized the key responsibility of religious leaders in guiding the nation, particularly the youth, away from sectarianism, extremism, and misleading ideologies.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister urged scholars to further the Holy Prophet's message of tolerance, dialogue, forgiveness, and compassion, emphasizing that scholarly disagreements should not lead to division. He highlighted the importance of developing the character and moral values of the new generation, inspired by the noble character of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH).
He expressed satisfaction with the development of a comprehensive framework by the National Rahmatul-lil-Alameen Wa Khatamun Nabiyyin Authority, which has been implemented in the federal capital, with provincial governments also advancing in this direction. The Prime Minister noted the challenges the younger generation faces from extremism, sectarianism, and misleading ideas, underscoring the need to address their questions wisely while equipping them with knowledge of Islamic traditions and modern education.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of scholars trained in religious seminaries possessing strong moral character and integrity. He encouraged them to promote unity among the nation in the light of Uswa-e-Hasna when assuming responsibilities at the pulpit. The Prime Minister highlighted the universal message of peace, mercy, and compassion embodied in the life of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), advocating for global recognition of these teachings as a guarantee of peace.
The Prime Minister also highlighted Pakistan's efforts for regional peace and unity in the Muslim Ummah, appreciating the contributions of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. He remarked on the unsuccessful attempts by adversaries to divide Muslims in the Middle East and inject hatred, crediting Allah Almighty's grace for the failure of these efforts. The Makkah Agreement, he noted, stands as a testament to these efforts.
He acknowledged the support of Trkiye and Saudi Arabia during the May war last year, expressing optimism that the enduring relationships with these brotherly countries will continue to strengthen.
During the Seerat Conference, Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf encouraged the youth to seek guidance from the Seerat of Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). He highlighted the life of Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) as a comprehensive model for individual, family, societal, and state development, imparting lessons of discipline, collective responsibility, compassion, and sacrifice.
Renowned religious scholars, including Chairman of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad and Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology Maulana Raghib Hussain Naeemi, also addressed the gathering, urging the youth to follow the teachings and exemplary life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) for success in this world and the hereafter.
The Prime Minister concluded the event by presenting awards and prizes to the writers of Seerat books.