CM calls for peaceful coexistence despite differences

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Sunday said the birth of Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was a divine blessing for all humanity, and his life serves as a model of obedience to Allah, justice, compassion and love.

“The Holy Prophet (PBUH) exemplified these virtues, and also demonstrated the importance of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, even amid religious differences,” Shah said at ‘Seerat Conference: The Importance of Interfaith Respect and Cooperation’ organised by the provincial religious affairs department at the Liaquat Memorial Library.

He said the life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) offers profound lessons on mutual respect and unity, adding that his teachings remain a guiding light for resolving modern-day challenges, providing a framework for peace, harmony and societal unity.

He also said Islam guarantees protecting minorities’ rights within an Islamic state, underscoring the shared basic beliefs of all the revealed religions, particularly the oneness of Allah.

Talking about the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, the CM said it helped avert bloodshed, and eventually paved the way for the peaceful conquest of Mecca, noting that the Prophet’s (PBUH) remarkable patience and commitment to peace culminated in a general amnesty for the Meccans who had once opposed Islam.

“Despite being rejected and harmed in Taif, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) chose forgiveness over vengeance, praying for the guidance of its people,” he said, adding that this act of compassion eventually led to the people of Taif embracing Islam.

Shah urged Muslims to embody the values of respect, love and compassion, which are at the heart of the Holy Prophet’s (PBUH) teachings. “In a world torn apart by mistrust and conflicts, fostering mutual respect between different religions, sects and nations is essential.”

He also highlighted the need to instil high moral values in the younger generation, urging Muslims to promote respect for all humanity. He called for an end to the global climate of mistrust, and urged reflection on the teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) to counter misinformation and hostility.