Leaders Stress Dialogue Over Conflict at Interfaith Iftar Event

By: Aziz Khatri

  KARACHI: The Catholic Commission for Inter-Religious Dialogue and Ecumenism (CCIDE) of the Archdiocese of Karachi hosted an interfaith Iftar dinner, bringing together people from different religious backgrounds to promote peace, unity, and mutual understanding.

Speaking on the occasion, Kashif Anthony, Secretary CCIDE, said the purpose of the gathering was to pray for peace in the world, the country, and within individuals. He emphasized that this is not a time for conflict but for reflection, compassion, and collective responsibility to foster harmony.

Director CCIDE, Fr. Shakeel Gulzar, highlighted the seriousness of the ongoing humanitarian crises, particularly in the Middle East. He noted that the region, which holds deep spiritual and historical significance as the birthplace of major religions, is suffering due to war and division, calling it a matter of concern for all humanity.

Abdul Samad Memon, Coordinator Interfaith Harmony at Minhaj-ul-Quran International, stressed that all religions share common values such as justice, compassion, and care for the needy. He urged greater collaboration among religious institutions and emphasized the importance of overcoming fear and promoting peaceful coexistence through dialogue and mutual respect.

Participant Kiran Fatima described the event as a meaningful experience, saying it was her first time attending an interfaith gathering. She appreciated the initiative and offered her services as a volunteer to support such efforts in the future.

In his address, Sham Sunder Advani, Member of the Provincial Assembly and Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Sindh for Minorities Affairs, called for unity among communities and emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved through sincere dialogue and respect for all.

Similarly, Fouzia Hameed, MPA from MQM Pakistan, said that remaining silent during times of crisis is not an option and urged people to choose peace over conflict for the future of humanity.

A message from Elena Dini, Senior Program Manager at the John Paul II Center for Interreligious Dialogue, highlighted Ramadan as a time of grace and spiritual reflection, emphasizing that shared moments like Iftar strengthen bonds between communities.

Islamic scholar Mufti Abu Talha Muhayudin underscored that the core message of all religions is peace, mercy, and love for humanity, urging religious leaders to work together to promote dialogue, justice, and compassion.

MPA Mahesh Kumar Hasija noted that interfaith dialogue is essential in times of growing polarization. He emphasized that Sindh has a long tradition of diversity and coexistence, which must be preserved through collective efforts.

Deputy Speaker of the Sindh Assembly, Naveed Anthony, appreciated the role of CCIDE in bringing communities together and said that such initiatives are vital for fostering peaceful coexistence and strengthening interfaith harmony in society.

The event concluded with collective prayers for peace, unity, and stability in Pakistan and across the world, reinforcing the shared commitment of all participants toward building a more inclusive and compassionate society.