Maulana Syed Abdul Khabeer Azad, Chairman of Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and Khateeb of Lahore’s Badshahi Mosque, represented Pakistan at the International Interfaith Peace Conference held in Rome, organised by the Sant’Egidio Community.
The conference, themed “Christian-Muslim Dialogue and Daring Peace,” gathered over 300 international delegates and more than 1,000 religious leaders from around the world to promote dialogue, coexistence, and global peace.
The event coincided with the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate – the landmark Vatican declaration redefining the Church’s relationship with non-Christian faiths. The anniversary was marked by a solemn celebration at the Vatican on October 28-29, where His Holiness Pope Leo XIV presided as the Chief Guest and led a Peace Walk at Rome’s Colosseum.
During his meeting with the Pope, Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad presented Pakistan’s grand narrative and message, which Pope Leo appreciated. He also extended an invitation to the Pope to visit his homeland, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to advancing interfaith dialogue and peace.
“Interfaith harmony is a need of the time, and through dialogue, we can lead the world towards peace,” said Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, stressing the importance of ending violent behaviors and promoting respect for humanity.
Pope Leo XIV thanked the visiting dignitaries and reiterated the need to expand interfaith dialogue globally, reflecting on the lasting impact of Nostra Aetate.
“Sixty years ago, with Nostra Aetate, the seed of hope for interreligious dialogue was planted. Today, this seed has grown into a powerful tree bearing abundant fruit of understanding, friendship, cooperation, and peace,” he said.
The Vatican gathering concluded with a Ceremony for Peace at the Colosseum, attended by religious leaders and scholars from across the world. In his closing remarks, Pope Leo called for unity and compassion, declaring, “Enough of war – with all the pain it causes through death, destruction, and exile”.