LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that discrimination and unfair treatment against Muslims around the world are the result of growing Islamophobia and called for stronger global efforts to eliminate the phenomenon. In her message on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, the chief minister stated that Islamophobia is condemnable and has led to unjust treatment of Muslims in many parts of the world. Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that innocent Muslims in Palestine and Kashmir continue to suffer oppression and injustice due to Islamophobia. She emphasised that Islam is a religion of peace and that Muslims firmly believe in peace and coexistence. She added that Islam is the faith that guarantees fundamental human rights. Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif also said that Islamic values must be presented in a positive manner to counter Islamophobia. She stressed that Muslim countries should overcome internal differences and become a symbol of unity. Maryam Nawaz Sharif further stated that practicing Islamic values and maintaining responsible individual conduct can play an important role in defeating Islamophobia. She urged people to renew their commitment to tolerance, patience and mutual respect on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia and emphasised that greater efforts are needed at the global level to eradicate the issues. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026