ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, has said that the Ministry, in consultation with eminent scholars representing all schools of thought, clerics, and members of the business community is formulating a unified calendar to standardize Azan and prayer timings across for the promotion of religious harmony. The Minister stated that the proposed calendar is currently under review by the concerned Nizam-e-Salat Committee and is expected to be finalized and published soon. The Minister sought complete support of the ICCI leadership in successfully implementing the initiative by appreciating the consistent cooperation extended by the business community, particularly the ICCI with the Ministry.
He expressed these views while addressing an interactive session at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) on Thursday.
Emphasizing Islamic principles in economic activities, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf asserted that trade and business should be conducted in accordance with Islamic teachings, ensuring success both in this world and the hereafter. Highlighting the importance of interfaith harmony as the need of the hour, he elaborated on his Ministry’s countrywide initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance and unity. He reaffirmed that the protection of the lives and property of minorities is the constitutional responsibility of the government, adding that regular interfaith conferences are being organized to strengthen mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence.
Earlier, in his welcome address, President ICCI Sardar Tahir Mehmood expressed gratitude to the Minister for his tireless efforts in promoting interfaith harmony and ensuring cost-effective facilitation for Hajj pilgrims. He also apprised the Minister of ICCI’s regular initiative of hosting weekly Dars-e-Quran sessions for the guidance and benefit of the business community.
Sardar Tahir Mehmood assured that the entire business community stands shoulder to shoulder with the government in promoting unity and stability. He strongly condemned acts of terrorism carried out by enemies of Pakistan and offered the Chamber’s platform for organizing awareness sessions for youth to counter extremist narratives.
Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub informed the Chief Guest that ICCI has over 15,000 registered members and is actively performing its corporate social responsibility alongside its business activities.
Maulana Ahmed Ali highlighted the Chamber’s Seerat classes and future initiatives, while Vice President Irfan Chaudhry, in his vote of thanks, reiterated ICCI’s commitment to raising awareness within the community regarding religious teachings and social harmony.
The event was also attended by former President Zafar Bakhtawari, executive members Malik Abdul Aziz, Zulqurnain Abbasi, Imran Minhas, Aftab Gujjar, Mirza Mohammad Ali, former Senior Vice President Malik Naveed, Khalid Chaudhry, Mehmood Warrich, Chairman Religious Affairs Committee Tariq Wani, and other prominent members of the business community.
