Minorities Peace Carvan reaches federal capital

ISLAMABAD: A carvan of minorities that started peace walk from Karachi reached here on Sunday to show commitment of minorities in national harmony, peace and prosperity in Pakistan.

Minister of State for National Harmony, Akram Masih Gill received the carvan comprising over 50 people belonging to different faiths.

The carvan lead by Riaz Masih Gill started peace walk from Karachi Press Club on June 24 with an objective to promoting peace and national harmony in the country.

Addressing a press conference after receiving the carvan, Akram Masih Gill renewed his commitment to draw the minorities in the main stream of national life as they have been playing vital role in the development of Pakistan and have contributed in every sphere of life.

"This act of peace reminds us to work hard for the welfare of the humanity and for prosperous Pakistan on 65th Independence day of Pakistan," he said.

"Today we are conveying a message of peace, love and sincerity from the platform of Ministry of National Harmony and condemn the menace of ethnicity and sectarianism," the minister added.

He said the peace walk will help promoting the national objectives of the government regarding the safeguard of rights of the minorities, interfaith harmony and other social rights not only domestically but also internationally.

He assured to extend all possible cooperation in protecting the rights of the minorities as per vision of founding father Quid- e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The minister appreciated Riaz Masih Gill for launching a walk as ambassador of peace in order to convey a message of peace and harmony to the national and international communities.

Secretary Ministry of National Harmony Anees-ur-Rehman, Member International Peace Club and Ambassador of Peace Riaz Masih Gill and Chairman International Peace Club Muhammad Yawar Shah also addressed the event.

Copyright Reuters, 2011