PESHAWAR: Speakers at a function here on Thursday urged government and people to join hands for restoration of sustainable peace in the country to bring a positive change in life of common man.

The event was organised by Peace Education and Development Foundation in connection with international peace day that was addressed by University of Peshawar former vice-chancellor Dr Qibla Ayaz, Coordinator to Chief Minister on Minority Issues Ravi Kumar, All Hindu Rights Movement chairman Haroon Sarb Dayal, Augustan Jacob, Radesh Singh Toni, PEAD programme coordinator Shagufta Khaliq, woman councillor Rabia Basri and writer Roshan Khattak.

A video song, followed by a skit, was also part of the function.

Addressing the function, Dr Qibla Ayaz said that restoration of peace, protection of environment and alleviation of poverty were three major global issues. He said that sustainable development and prosperity was linked with lasting peace in the region.

Function held in Peshawar in connection with peace day

Dr Qibla Ayaz urged the youth to come forward and play practical role in resolution of the core issues.

Ravi Kumar told the participants of the function that women had a vital role in peace building. “World War-1 and World War-II claimed millions of lives and now the world is already being pushed towards a third war that would mean more deaths and destruction,” he added.

Mr Kumar said that Pakistan came into being in the name of Islam but minorities also rendered sacrifices for the purpose therefore they must be given equal rights and status in the country.

Haroon Sarb Dayal said that Pakistan was their identity and they were ready to render any sacrifice for their motherland. “The wrong perspective about different religions is one of the major causes of unrest and violence in the country’” he said. Mr Dayal said that peace could not be restored until they forged unity.

Augustan Jacob said that they had to understand different religions and faiths. “There is beauty because of this diversity,” he added.

Rabia Basri said that no religion taught violence and hatred. “Muhammad (PBUH) is the best example before us as he was kind to all humankind,” she added.

Roshan Khattak said that United Nations had been observing international day of peace for the last 15 years but its silence over Kashmir’s issue was shocking. “It needs to take concrete steps to address this long-prevailing issue,” he added.

Mr Khattak also called upon the international community to reduce manufacturing of weapons as it was the main cause of destruction.

At the end the participants lighted candles and offered prayers for restoration of peace and stability of the country.

Published in Dawn, September 23rd, 2016