Second Seerat-Un-Nabi (S.A.W) Interfaith Conference, organised by the Australia-Pakistan National Association (APNA), was held today in Brisbane, Australia.
High Commissioner Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, virtually participated in the Conference as a keynote speaker.
The Conference was attended by representatives of different faiths, Muslim scholars and community leaders. Dr. Mark Robinson, member of the Queensland Parliament also attended the Conference.
The High Commissioner, in his remarks, highlighted the message of peace and tolerance of Islam and its teachings concerning the treatment of members of different faiths. He emphasised that few radical fringes in any faith and their actions must not be attributed to the whole religion.
Likewise, actions of few, who neither represent over 1.3 billion Muslims across the world nor symbolise the true teachings of Islam, must not be allowed to be used to create misunderstandings and misconceptions about Islam.
Speaking about the issue of Islamophobia, the High Commissioner condemned the vicious cycle of hate and violence as a result of desecration of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Holy Quran. He underscored the need to create better understanding of the deep love and respect the Muslims have for their Prophet (PBUH) and for their Holy Book.
Appreciating the efforts of the organisers and the participants of the Conference for building bridges, he called for leaders of different faiths to come forward and play their role in promoting interfaith harmony.
Highlighting the contributions made by people from different shades and backgrounds, the High Commissioner stated that Australia is a beautiful mosaic of diverse cultures, ethnicities, and faiths. I have no doubt that this spirit of peaceful coexistence, which is at the heart of Australian society, will continue to dominate and make Australia even greater, the High Commissioner added.
