President Mamnoon Hussain, who is currently on an official visit to Turkey, Saturday, visited Konya. He was warmly received by Governor Konya Muammer Erol, Mayor Tahir Akyurek, Garrison commander and other senior officials at the Airport. During his meeting with Governor Konya on the occasion, the President said that the people of Pakistan have great love for the people of Konya and keep Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi in great reverence.
He said spiritual message of Maulana Rumi has served to unite humanity from all religions and all walks of life. The President said it is the need of the present times as well that we should put aside our difference and celebrate our commonalties. "Our national poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal was the spiritual disciple of Maulana Rumi. Iqbal's thought for Pakistan and the people of Pakistan has been inspired by Rumi's message of love and self-individuation," said the President.
Governor Konya said the people of Konya have also great love for the people of Pakistan and greatly valued their support for the Turkish War of Independence. To pay homage to the great Sufi saint of the Muslim world, the President and his delegation visited the mausoleum of Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi. He also visited the shrine of Hazarat Shams-e-Tabrizi who was the teacher of Maulana Rumi. The President mixed with local people. Later the President was presented a guard of honour upon his departure for Pakistan. Governor, Mayor and Garrison commander of Konya bid farewell to the Pakistani President.