Pakistan’s religious and cultural heritage is a key source for promoting peace, mutual respect, and national unity, said Nosheen Iftikhar.

The protection of historical sites and places of worship is not only about safeguarding the past but also an expression of commitment to coexistence and historical justice, she stated while addressing the Interfaith Peace Conference.

Islamabad (Izhaar Khan Niazi) – Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on National Heritage and Culture and Member of the National Assembly Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar said that the protection of Pakistan’s religious and cultural heritage is an important means for promoting peace, mutual respect, and national unity.

She expressed these views while addressing the International Interfaith Peace Conference organized by the Interfaith Council for Peace and Harmony Pakistan as a guest of honor. Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar was also awarded the Interfaith Harmony Award in recognition of her services for promoting interfaith harmony, peace, and tolerance.

Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar congratulated the council for its commendable services spanning five decades in interfaith harmony, dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect. She stated that Pakistan’s religious and cultural diversity is an essential part of its national identity, and the heritage of Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Kalash, and other communities is a significant component of Pakistan’s shared history.

She emphasized that the protection of historical sites and places of worship is not merely about preserving the past but also an expression of dignity, coexistence, and a commitment to historical justice.

The Chairperson of the Standing Committee stated that interfaith harmony should not be limited to conferences but should be promoted in educational institutions, cultural platforms, public dialogue, and everyday life. It is essential to play an effective role in the protection of religious and cultural heritage through legislation, oversight, and policy dialogue in parliament.

Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar stressed the need to introduce the younger generation to Pakistan’s diverse heritage and to counter narratives of prejudice and hatred.

Federal ministers, diplomats, scholars, civil society members, journalists, and representatives of various religions attended the conference.