KARACHI: 4th International Sufi Conference with the theme “Sufi Heritage: Counterculture Narrative & Peacebuilding in the Era of Globalisation” was held on Friday at Hotel Beach Luxury, Karachi. The two-day conference was organised by the Sindh Culture, Tourism and Antiquities Department. The conference brings forth the scholars from 13 countries to engage with the cultural heritage narratives and prospects of peacebuilding in the global era. While delivering an inaugural speech as a chief guest, Pakistan People’s Party women-wing President Faryal Talpur said that the critical transformative potential of this 4th International Sufi conference would greatly benefit the scholars and participants especially the young students. “I must congratulate the Department of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities Government of Sindh for organizing this august international conference, which is a great way of learning, exchanging research, knowledge and values,” she said, hoping that this conference would be able to conclude with a clear counter-narrative and conducive recommendations for the policymakers. “As it is evident from the theme, the Sufism is a counter-cultural narrative in times of cholera,” Talpur went on to say. “Let’s reiterate our profound ambitions for the promotion of values such as tolerance, peace and brotherhood in order to crush the rising extremism and intolerance,” she added. She also welcomed the scholars and other guests who are participating in the conference. Provincial Minister for Culture, Tourism and Antiquities Syed Sardar Ali Shah said the conference is aimed at furthering the message of peace. “It is the fourth year that we are hosting the conference where both international and national experts enlighten us,” said the minister. “You may find Sufi traditions and practices worldwide but the Sufi heritage in South Asia and more specifically in Sindh is much significant,” he added. The minister also thanked researchers who come from their homelands to exchange knowledge and their experiences with the participants of the conference. The first day of the conference included three different sessions. Experts shared their views regarding the theme and papers of renowned scholars were also read during the sessions.