KARACHI: A conference titled “Interfaith Harmony and Strategy for Mutual Understanding Between Religions” was held on Wednesday here at the Holy Trinity Cathedral Church to promote religious harmony. The conference brought together scholars and religious leaders from all major faiths to highlight the importance of religious harmony for the growth, peace, and prosperity of Pakistan. With Minister of State for Religious Affairs, Kheal Das Kohistani as the chief guest, religious leaders from Muslim, Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Parsi, and Baha’i communities, Members of the National and Provincial Assemblies, Ambassadors and representatives of civil society participated in the conference. Prominent among the participants were Mufti Muhammad Yousuf Qasuri, Allama Dr Shabbir Hussain Meithmi, Ms Tishna Patel, Dr Jameel Rathore, Ms Tooba Kahravi, Sardar Ramesh Singh, Bishop Frederick John (Bishop of Karachi), Mufti Abu Huraira Mohiuddin, and Dr Sham Sundar Advani. Addressing the gathering, the chief guest Kheal Das Kohistani thanked all participants for their active involvement and meaningful contributions. He emphasized that the challenges faced by society can only be resolved through harmony and mutual respect. He stated that all solutions lie in unity and understanding among religions. The Minister highlighted that a Religious Harmony Policy was introduced in the assembly this year and stressed that teachings related to interfaith harmony should be made part of the educational curriculum to promote tolerance from an early age. He also underscored the vital role of the media in promoting interfaith harmony and countering narratives of hatred. He stated that understanding each other’s religions is essential for building mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. “Pakistan is a homeland comprising the people from different religions, and no religion teaches hatred or terrorism,” he said, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, tolerance, and interfaith coexistence. The conference concluded with a collective resolve to strengthen interfaith dialogue and cooperation for a peaceful and inclusive Pakistan. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026