Punjab Hosts Interfaith, Peace & Harmony Conference to Honor Armed Forces During Minority Week

Lahore, August 9, 2025 Ali Imran Chattha— As part of the Minority Week and Independence Day celebrations, the Government of Punjab, in partnership with the United Interfaith Organization, hosted the “Interfaith, Peace & Harmony Conference” at Alhamra Hall, Lahore. The gathering aimed to promote interfaith understanding, national cohesion, and recognize the sacrifices of Pakistan’s Armed Forces.

The chief guest, Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, praised the contributions of minority communities in Pakistan, noting their excellence across professions, including service in the Armed Forces. He highlighted Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s historic initiative to celebrate Minority Week across Punjab, calling minorities “the crown of her head.” Arora also referenced the May 10 victory in Operation Bunyān Mersūs, describing it as a testament to Pakistan’s strong defense and commitment to peace.

Rev. Dr. Majeed Abel opened the event with remarks of solidarity for the Armed Forces, while the session moderator, Javed William, guided discussions emphasizing tolerance and unity. Maulana Asim Makhdum, Chairman of the Kul Masalik Board, stated that celebrating Minority Week alongside Independence Day sends a strong message of unity under one flag.

Other speakers — including Khateeb Data Darbar Ramzan Sialvi and Dr. Taimoor Khan — paid tribute to the Armed Forces and underscored the importance of interfaith harmony. Faces Pakistan performed national songs and presented a short film, “People Like the Flag” (Parcham Jaisia Log), depicting love, unity, and diversity in Pakistan.

A panel discussion featuring Maulana Israr Madni, Dr. Kalyan Singh Kalyan, Rev. Sister Genevieve, Ram Lal, and Pandit Rakesh Chand offered practical strategies for promoting religious harmony. In his concluding remarks, Secretary for Human Rights Fareed Ahmed Tarar thanked participants and lauded the organizers, expressing hope for more such collaborative efforts for peace.

The event concluded with Minister Arora presenting awards to individuals recognized for their work in fostering interfaith understanding. Notable attendees included Sardar Bishan Singh, Sardar Kalyan Singh, Amarnath Randhawa, Sister Genevieve, scholars, minority leaders, and youth from various communities.