Mamnoon calls for developing counter-narrative to turn tide on terrorism

ISLAMABAD: President Mamnoon Hussain has urged different segments of the society to sit together to develop a national narrative to defeat the scourge of terrorism.

He was addressing the International Seerat Conference organized by Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony here today.

The president said intellectuals, writers, poets, political and social experts as well as think tanks will have to play their role towards building the narrative against terrorism.

He recalled that the religious scholars at a conference held sometimes back at International Islamic University had presented a joint communiqué suggesting the way forward in the war on terror. It was a positive step in the right direction, he added.

Hussain said that on 1st December, when the people were celebrating the birth of Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and renewing their pledges to follow his teachings, the terrorists stormed the hostel of Peshawar Agricultural Training Center, killing nine people.

He said that a person who has respect and affection for the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and believes in Islam cannot dare play with the lives and property of other people in such a manner.

The president emphatically made it clear that Pakistani nation strongly rejects terrorism and is determined to wipe it out.

He pointed out that extremism is a curse, which poses serious threat to national development and country’s stability. It is imperative for the entire nation to unite in the face this menace.

Referring to the topic of Seerat Conference “Guiding Principles for the National leadership in light of the teachings of Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW)”, the president said it is particularly important for those at the helm of affairs to constantly study the Holy Quran and Sunnah of Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to get the rightful guidance to face the challenges of their era.

Hussain noted that the world is entangled in complex problems of various natures. In such a situation, the mature nations and their leadership determine their way forward by sincerely evaluating the challenges from educational, cultural, societal, political and economic aspects, he added.

He said that by following in the footsteps of Holy Prophet Muhamamad (SAW), we can free the society from all ills and negative tendencies and put it on the path of peace, progress and prosperity.

Addressing the conference, Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf said that it has always been the endeavour of the ministry of religious affairs to promote the Islamic teachings as this is vital to meet the present day challenges.

He said holding of Seerat conferences and other such events are also aimed at providing guidance to the people to find solutions of their problems in the light of the teachings of holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

On the occasion, prizes were also distributed among the best writers of Seerat books and literature.