The United Nations General Assembly has adopted Pakistan-led resolution on the promotion of inter-religious and inter-cultural dialogue by an overwhelming majority. According to a statement issued on Thursday, the resolution, co-sponsored with the Philippines, is part of Pakistan’s global efforts to promote interfaith harmony, tolerance, respect for each other’s religions and values, and peaceful co-existence.
It welcomes the Kartarpur initiative by Pakistan, referring to it as a “landmark initiative for inter-religious and inter-cultural cooperation for peace. Due to the efforts of Pakistan’s delegation, the resolution for the first time this year also acknowledges the significance and respect for religious symbols. It stresses that the exercise of the right to freedom of expression carries with it special duties and responsibilities, and must therefore be subjected to legitimate restrictions. In the wake of growing religious intolerance and racism, especially Islamophobia around the world, this resolution is important for mainstreaming these contemporary challenges and taking the necessary steps to curb such trends. The resolution focuses on inter-religious and cultural dialogues amongst all stakeholders and advocates combating intolerance, xenophobia, discrimination and acts of violence. It supports the call of the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations for “mutual respect”.
