Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti has urged the international community to take effective and collective measures to counter the growing trend of Islamophobia worldwide, warning that rising anti-Muslim sentiment poses a serious threat to global peace and stability.
In a special message issued on the occasion of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Bugti said Islam is a religion of peace, harmony, and the welfare of humanity, stressing that the world must understand its true message.
He expressed concern over increasing incidents of Islamophobia in different parts of the world and called on global leaders and institutions to adopt meaningful strategies to curb hate campaigns targeting Muslims, a CM’s Secretariat press release added. He emphasized that discrimination and prejudice against Muslims constitute a violation of fundamental human rights.
Sarfraz Bugti welcomed the United Nations’ decision to designate March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, describing it as an important diplomatic achievement for the Muslim world.
He said attempts to link Islam with extremism are part of a deliberate and organized campaign, adding that such narratives must be challenged through dialogue, awareness, and education at the global level.
Highlighting the province’s social fabric, Sarfraz Bugti said Balochistan stands as an example of interfaith harmony, tolerance, and brotherhood. He reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to protecting the rights of followers of all religions and respecting their beliefs and practices.
He also acknowledged the efforts of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party, for presenting the peaceful image of Islam at international forums. CM Bugti criticized the misuse of freedom of expression in some Western countries, saying that hurting the sentiments of Muslims under the guise of free speech must come to an end.
The chief minister stressed the need for effective legislation and practical measures to eliminate Islamophobia. “Only by dismantling the walls of hatred and prejudice can the world move toward a peaceful and balanced global society,” he said.
He concluded by urging people to reject extremism and work collectively to promote tolerance, moderation, and mutual respect among communities worldwide.