High Commissioner hosts the British Missionaries, Educationists and Philanthropists, appreciates their services and stresses interfaith harmony

The Pakistan High Commission, London organized a Reception on 5 April 2019, in honour of the British Missionaries, Educationists and Philanthropists who had lived and served in Pakistan. The event entitled, “The Journey of Love” was part of High Commissioner, Mohammad Nafees Zakaria’s outreach initiative to connect with the British friends of Pakistan and the Pakistani Diaspora in the UK.

A large number of the British Missionaries, Educationists, Philanthropists, members of the Pakistani Community and Media attended the Reception. Dr Arif Malik moderated the event.

The Missionaries/Educationists/Philanthropists shared with the audience fond memories of their work and stay in various parts of Pakistan. Those who spoke on the occasion included Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department for Transport, Honourable Nusrat Ghani MP, Revd Rana Youab Khan, Mr. Rupert Gold, Mrs. Caroline Tisdall, Mr. Sandy Sneddon, Mrs. Rosemary James and Bishop Michael Nazir Ali.

The Speakers shed light on the contributions of the British Friends in the progress and development in the socio-economic and cultural spheres of life in Pakistan since independence. They praised the people of Pakistan for their hospitality, love and religious tolerance.

In his remarks, the High Commissioner commended the contribution of the British Missionaries, Educationists and Philanthropists towards the development and progress of various segments of society in Pakistan. He said people of Pakistan still cherish the good work and fond memories of the British Missionaries. Mr Zakaria acknowledged with deep appreciation the support of Christians, in particular, among the followers of other beliefs, to the Quaid-i-Azam towards creation of Pakistan and during the formative period of the newly born country.

The High Commissioner said Pakistan is rich in cultural and religious diversity as its population comprises the Christians, Sikhs, Budhists, Hindus, Parsis, Zoroastrians, Bahais, and small portion of the Kalash, Kihals and Jains. Speaking about the rights of country’s citizens of various faiths and beliefs, the High Commissioner said that Constitution of Pakistan protects the rights of all the citizens without any discrimination. The Government of Pakistan is cognizant of its responsibilities towards its citizens, irrespective of their faith or belief. He stressed on interfaith harmony and love for all.

The British Friends appreciated the High Commissioner’s gesture which would help further strengthen the bilateral relations.

Sufi Opera singer Saira Peter, belonging to the Christian fraternity of Pakistan in the UK, entertained the audience with her beautiful voice.