An expert roundtable on contemporary intercultural and interreligious dialogue convened at the Independence Palace in Astana as part of the 8th Congress of World and Traditional Religious Leaders, bringing together scholars, faith figures and university leaders to discuss the scientific study of religious diplomacy. The gathering highlighted the practical role of religious leaders in addressing global challenges and building safer communities.
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed, President of the International Islamic University Islamabad, addressed the session on the role of religious leaders in creating a safer world and stressed that “religion is a useful instrument for achieving peace.” He underlined that religious beliefs, leaders and faith-based organizations have significant potential to promote peace and that the ethical power of religion can help unite divided societies through dialogue about shared virtues.
Drawing on Pakistan’s experience, the IIUI President described a national initiative developed to counter sectarian violence and intolerance. The Paigham-e-Pakistan narrative, prepared and coordinated by the Islamic Research Institute at IIUI, was presented as a concrete example of how religious leaders can shape a cohesive national message that rejects sectarian hatred and the forced imposition of ideologies.
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed noted that Paigham-e-Pakistan explicitly declares that sectarian hatred and armed sectarian conflict are violations of Islamic injunctions and amount to creating disorder in the earth (fasād fī al-arḍ). He also emphasized that the narrative protects the civil and legal rights of non-Muslims, ensuring equality in life, property and dignity within the framework of the Constitution and law.
The presentation received warm appreciation from participants, reflecting Pakistan’s active engagement in promoting interfaith peace. The Astana discussion reinforced the message that when religious leaders engage constructively, religious dialogue and initiatives like Paigham-e-Pakistan can contribute meaningfully to sustainable peace both at home and internationally.
