J. Salik, a True Hero of Minorities and an ambassador for peace.

Actually Muslim-Christian dialogue is a dialogue among believers. They identify this endeavor as a practical expression of their religious values, values which give substance to the meaning of pluralism, mutual awareness, and the unqualified dignity of the human being, and of the values of justice, fairness, truth, decency, fellow feeling, affection, mercy and the stewardship of creation. Dialogue is a prerequisite for coexistence, for national unity, and for constructive social interaction between the citizens of one nation. Furthermore it is a spiritual, moral and cultural requirement mandated by the principle of mutual understanding among believers. This principle nurtures values of mutual respect, strengthens the bonds of friendship, and corrects the distorted and stereotypical images that make for mutual alienation and fear.
J Salik has played a commendable role in Pakistan to highlight the positive and bright examples of how people can live together, stand in solidarity with each other, express mutual respect, and show each other affection. As Federal Minister for Minorities Government of Pakistan, Member of Parliament and Human Rights Activist, Salik has earned great respect internationally. His strong voice for religious harmony and freedom is being heard from the past three decades worldwide. His recent announcement to convene a Christian Muslim International Minorities Conference at Pakistan is a most timely and wise decision, his initiative to secure a Religious Minorities Seat in the United Nations will certainly draw the world’s attention for the perseverance of world peace.

I firmly endorse J. Salik’s viewpoint that without respect for Muslim and Christian religious sensibilities, symbols and sacred things, dialogue and coexistence will be deficient. As a friend of Salik’s from the past thirty years, I am happy to learn of all of his initiatives and would consider it an honor to support him.
 

ZULFIQAR A. KAZMI, Ph.D.
PRESIDENT, PAKISTAN CHAPTER
UNIVERSAL PEACE FEDERATION INTER RELIGIOUS AND INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION FOR WORLD PEACE PAKISTAN CHAPTER USA
Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations
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