Islamabad: Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, met with a delegation of religious leaders and representatives from international and civil society organizations to discuss efforts aimed at promoting interfaith harmony, peaceful coexistence, and social inclusion.

According to Press Information Department, the delegation was led by Pastor Dr. Bob Roberts Jr., Founder of the Multi-Faith Neighbors Network (MFNN) in the USA, along with Micah Fries, Director of MFNN, and Shahid Rehmat, Executive Director of the Youth Development Foundation and Founder of Acceptance for Inclusion in Canada. They were joined by Senator Khalil Tahir Sandhu, a member of the Senate of Pakistan.

During the meeting, Gilani emphasized that an inclusive society is built on the foundation of equal respect, dignity, and opportunities for all segments of society. Reflecting on his tenure as Prime Minister, he mentioned his government’s initiatives for minorities, such as establishing a separate Ministry for Interfaith Harmony and introducing a job quota for minorities. He also highlighted the formation of a Minority Caucus in the Senate to enhance minority representation.

Gilani stressed the crucial role of parliaments in fostering mutual respect and a culture of tolerance, expressing his commitment to using parliamentary diplomacy for these goals. He affirmed that Pakistan’s strength lies in its diversity and underscored the contribution of all citizens to the country’s progress.

The leader of the delegation, Pastor Dr. Bob Roberts Jr., acknowledged Gilani’s dedication to interfaith harmony and extended an invitation for him to attend the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington in February. Gilani welcomed the invitation warmly.

In conclusion, Gilani emphasized the importance of international and institutional cooperation, hoping that ongoing dialogue and collaborative initiatives would lead to a more peaceful and inclusive society.