ISLAMABAD, Feb 21: President Gen Pervez Musharraf has asked the nation to shun sectarianism and adopt the principles of tolerance and harmony for the prosperity of the country.
In his message on the commencement of 1425 Hijra, the president said: "Keeping in mind the sanctity of Muharram and the background of Hijra year, we should design our lives in accordance with the true spirit of Islam."
He urged shunning of selfish interests and avoiding sectarian activities for the prosperity and welfare of the country and the Muslims.
The principle of tolerance needed to be followed, as it was the basic point of Islam and was in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him), he said.
He prayed to Allah Almighty to bless the month for the people of the country with all its nobility and protect them from sectarian and terrorist activities.
JAMALI: Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali, in his message, urged the nation to discard mutual differences by following the principles of brotherhood and fraternity.
He said Muharram reminded the Muslims of the migration by the Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him) and the spirit of brotherhood, unity and harmony shown by the Ansar and the Muhajireen.
He said the month represented the sacrifices by our forefathers and guided us to follow the great principles of human values, such as faith, tolerance and courage.
"The month guides every individual about living each day of his life with fraternity, oneness and peace," he said.
He said Pakistan was the only Muslim state with nuclear power.
He said many had to migrate in the process of the creation of the country.
He said great responsibilities lay upon the countrymen to deal with their everyday matters in terms of real Islamic spirit and strong feelings with Pakistan.
"We should discard animosity, hatred and malevolence by concentrating on working for the prosperity of the country," he said.
The prime minister asked the nation to adopt the principles of tolerance, unity and brotherhood regardless of religion and nationality, which was the practice of living nations.-APP