Paigham-i-Islam Conference awards title of ‘Greatest Victorious General of the Century’ to CDF Asim Munir
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presents shields of the Saudi leadership to Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmad Al-Malkiy at the sixth Paigham-e-Islam conference. PHOTO: APP
ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Wednesday that Pakistan had emerged as a key force for peace and stability in the region, crediting the country’s diplomatic efforts to facilitate unprecedented talks between Iran and the United States.
Addressing the 6th International Paigham-e-Islam Conference here, the Prime Minister said the gathering at the conference reflected the unity of the Muslim Ummah and recognized the valuable contributions of religious scholars in promoting harmony.
He revealed that Pakistan successfully persuaded the leadership of Iran and the United States to engage in dialogue for the first time since 1979, with talks in Islamabad on April 11 and 12. He expressed gratitude to both countries for accepting Pakistan’s invitation and agreeing to a ceasefire.
“This reflects the confidence the international community has in Pakistan,” he said, adding that the country had rendered a significant service aimed at ensuring peace and stability in the region.
Adviser to the President of Palestine on Religious Affairs and Islamic Relations and the Chief Justice (Qazi ul Qaza) of Palestine Dr. Mahmoud Al-Habbash, Grand Mufti of Jerusalem and Palestine Sheikh Muhammad Ahmad Hussein, Minister of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Affairs Harmon Sardar Muhammad, Pakistan in Namad bin Ahammad Yousaf, Saudi Arabia, Ahmad bin Ahamad, Pakistan. Al-Malkiy was also present on the occasion.
The Prime Minister expressed optimism that Pakistan’s continued efforts would lead to sustainable peace in the region.
He also paid tribute to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his key role in maintaining regional peace. He also acknowledged the support of China and Turkey, along with other friendly nations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Defense Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their efforts in bringing both sides to the negotiating table.
Praying for the success of Pakistan’s efforts to achieve a permanent ceasefire, he stressed the importance of strong ties with Saudi Arabia, noting that bilateral relations had reached new heights, including in defense cooperation. He reiterated that the protection of Harmain Sharifain remained a matter of faith for Pakistan.
Referring to recent challenges, the prime minister said the entire nation remained united, regardless of sectarian differences, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining peace.
He called on religious scholars (Ulema) to play a proactive role in promoting unity and cohesion through their sermons and encouraging people to stand together for national stability.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s position on Palestine and Kashmir and said the country would continue to support their people until they achieve independence. He also condemned elements involved in terrorism and efforts to divide the Muslim Ummah.
The Prime Minister also distributed shields among eminent personalities in recognition of their distinguished services to the Muslim Ummah.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar underlined Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability and highlighted sustained diplomatic commitment to de-escalation and dialogue in the region and beyond.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled stand on Jammu & Kashmir and Palestine and emphasized the importance of Muslim unity, the central role of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and collective action for the welfare of the Ummah. He also highlighted Pakistan’s leadership in combating Islamophobia globally and promoting harmony among religions.
DPM/FM hailed Pakistan’s resilience and national resolve and reflected on the anniversary of “Marka-e-Haq”.
He emphasized that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, peace, progress and prosperity remained central to Pakistan’s national vision.
Chairman, Pakistan Ulema Council, Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi said that Pakistan had consistently raised the issue of Palestine in all international forums and had made sustained efforts during the last two months to promote peace.
He reiterated that Pakistan’s commitment to the Palestinian cause remained unwavering.
Meanwhile, the conference conferred the titles of “Leader of Peace” and “Greatest Victorious General of the Century” on Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, in recognition of his role in promoting peace and strengthening stability in the Muslim Ummah.
The conference strongly condemned the US and Israeli attacks on Iran. The conference also expressed concern over the strikes targeting Arab countries, terming them harmful to regional stability.
It called for national security, unity in the Muslim world and increased interfaith harmony.
In addition to the CDF, prominent national and international figures were awarded global honors at the conference in recognition of their contribution to peace, stability and unity in the Muslim world.
Prime Minister Shehbaz was presented as a shield of appreciation for his firm and unequivocal stance on important international issues, especially Palestine.
In addition, Prime Minister and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman – who has been named “Global Personality of 2025” – was honored with a special award for contributions to defense cooperation with Pakistan, promoting unity in the Muslim world and promoting peace at the regional and global level.
The conference also condemned the killing of a prominent religious scholar, Maulana Muhammad Idrees Tarangzai. It stated that acts of violence, extortion and lawlessness have no connection with Islam or Sharia, and expressed solidarity with state institutions in maintaining law and order.
The conference also noted that efforts should be made to strengthen coordination between religious scholars across Pakistan and other Muslim countries.
It was announced that the Seventh International Paigham-i-Islam Conference will be held next year in March 2027, with invitations to global religious leaders, including the Imam of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, the Grand Mufti of Palestine, the Sheikh of Al-Azhar and the Pope, in an effort to promote interfaith harmony.
It was also announced that similar conferences will be held under the auspices of the International Tazeem-i-Haramain Sharifain Council in different parts of the world.
