President Asif Ali Zardari has urged religious scholars from across the Muslim world to play a proactive role in promoting unity, countering extremism, and projecting Islam’s true message of peace.

Addressing the concluding session of the Sixth International Paigham-e-Islam Conference 2026 at the Presidency in Islamabad, the President said that the Muslim world is facing multiple challenges, including conflicts, instability, and divisions, which require collective wisdom and unity to overcome.

He observed that recent developments in West Asia have exposed deep fault lines affecting regional stability and economic conditions, while also distorting the global perception of Islam. He stressed that both external misrepresentation and internal sectarianism are contributing to these challenges.

Asif Ali Zardari emphasised that Islam is a religion of peace, balance, and humanity, noting that the sanctity of human life lies at the core of its teachings. He called upon religious scholars to provide practical and intellectual guidance rooted in Islamic principles to promote harmony, tolerance, and coexistence.

Referring to Pakistan’s experience, he said the country has made significant sacrifices in the fight against extremism and remains committed to eliminating violence in all its forms. He also reiterated Pakistan’s foreign policy stance, highlighting the need for the peaceful resolution of disputes in South Asia, including Jammu and Kashmir.

The President reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, calling for the establishment of an independent state of Palestine with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. He also stressed the importance of peace in Afghanistan, saying Afghan soil should not be used for terrorist activities against any country.

He also appreciated the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Mohammed bin Salman for their efforts to promote unity within the Muslim Ummah and address regional challenges.

Addressing the event, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Muslim countries and promoting ideological unity within the Ummah.

He underscored the important role of Ulema in guiding society and promoting the true image of Islam globally.

He also paid tribute to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their leadership in ensuring national security, and acknowledged the contributions of past leaders in making Pakistan a strong strategic power.

Chairman Pakistan Ulema Council, Maulana Tahir Ashrafi, said the conference highlighted Islam as a religion of peace, love, tolerance, and interfaith harmony. He noted that the theme of this year’s conference focused on global dialogue and emphasized the role of Pakistan’s leadership in promoting unity and stability.

He also referred to Pakistan’s defence capabilities, stating that the country’s strategic strength has been built through the efforts of leaders such as Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, and praised the leadership for safeguarding national interests.

Mufti-e-Azam of Palestine, Muhammad Ahmed Hussein, thanked Pakistan for hosting the conference and reiterated that the Palestine issue remains central to the Muslim Ummah. He appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and expressed hope that cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia would help strengthen unity among Muslim countries.

He also acknowledged the role of Saudi leadership in supporting the Palestinian cause and expressed optimism for a peaceful future, praying for the day when such a conference could be held at Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki, said the Palestine issue holds central importance for the Muslim world and emphasised the need for unity during challenging times.

He appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to a just resolution of the Palestinian issue in line with the aspirations of its people.