Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called upon religious scholars to play their role in promoting unity, brotherhood and peace in society in line with the teachings and character of Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

Addressing the annual International Seerat-un-Nabi Conference in Islamabad today, he said religious scholars have a key responsibility to guide the nation and protect the people, particularly the youth, from sectarianism, extremism and misleading ideologies.

He urged scholars to promote the Holy Prophet's message of tolerance, dialogue, forgiveness and compassion, stressing that scholarly differences should not become a cause of division.

The Prime Minister said there was a need to develop the character and moral values of the new generation in the light of the noble character of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH).

He expressed satisfaction that National Rahmatul-lil-Alameen Wa Khatamun Nabiyyin Authority  had developed a comprehensive framework for this purpose, which has been implemented in the federal capital, while the provincial governments are also moving forward in this direction.

The Prime Minister said the younger generation is facing challenges from extremism, sectarianism and misleading ideas, making it essential to address their questions with wisdom while equipping them with knowledge of Islamic traditions and modern education.

Shehbaz Sharif said the new generation of scholars being trained in religious seminaries should be distinguished by strong moral character and integrity, and, upon assuming responsibilities at the pulpit, should promote the message of unity among the nation in the light of Uswa-e-Hasna.

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the universal message of peace, mercy and compassion embodied in the life of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). He said the world should be invited to recognize that the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) are a guarantee of global peace. 

The Prime Minister also alluded to Pakistan's efforts for peace in the region and promotion of unity in Muslim Ummah. He, in this regard, appreciated the efforts of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. He said our enemies made every possible effort to divide the Muslims of the Middle East, tear their unity apart and inject the poison of hatred among them. However, by Allah Almighty's boundless grace and favour, these efforts remained unsuccessful.

The Prime Minister said the best result of these efforts is now before us in the form of the Makkah Agreement.

He said Türkiye and Saudi Arabia stood with Pakistan like a rock wall during the war in May last year. He said this longstanding relationship with both the brotherly countries will continue to grow stronger.

Addressing the Seerat Conference, Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf called upon the youth to seek guidance from the Seerat of Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). He said that the life of Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) provides a complete model for the development of individuals, families, societies, and the state. It teaches us discipline, collective responsibility, compassion and sacrifice.

Renowned religious scholars, including Chairman of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad and Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology Maulana Raghib Hussain Naeemi, also addressed the gathering.

They urged the youth to follow the teachings and exemplary life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) for success in this world and the hereafter.

The Prime Minister also presented awards and prizes to the writers of Seerat books.