ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has shared his concern with Chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Sefik Dzaferovic on the rise of Islamophobia around the world, particularly in Europe during one-on-one meeting after receiving him on Wednesday.
The two leaders held a one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks; the ministers and senior advisers were part of the delegations on both sides.
During the meetings, the prime minister stated that Pakistan shared brotherly affinity with the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and relations between the two countries were marked by mutual support at times of need.
The prime minister added that Bosnia and Herzegovina’s assistance on occasion of 2005 earthquake and 2010 floods in Pakistan was deeply appreciated.
The prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s effective efforts in fighting Covid-19 through “smart lockdown” strategy and focus on saving lives, securing livelihoods, and stimulating the economy.
Noting the efforts made by Bosnia and Herzegovina to contain the pandemic, the prime minister announced Pakistan’s intention to provide material assistance to the Bosnian side in combating the pandemic.
Chairman of the Presidency Sefik Dzaferovic highlighted the close cordial ties between Pakistan and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s important role in advancing peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of the UN Peacekeeping Mission during the Bosnian war, and later during the stabilisation process.
The two leaders exchanged views on the entire gamut of bilateral relations and agreed to further deepen mutual cooperation in all fields, especially in the economic, trade and investment, science and technology, defence industry, educational and cultural arenas.
It was also agreed to maintain frequent bilateral exchanges, including at the highest level.
The prime minister apprised Chairman Dzaferovic of the grave and systematic human rights violations in the IIOJK as well as the adverse consequences of India’s unilateral and illegal actions of 5 August 2019, and the threat posed to peace and security in the region.
The prime minister thanked the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina for its principled stance on the issue.
The chairman reiterated Bosnia and Herzegovina’s position regarding the grave situation in the IIOJK, stressing respect for human rights and resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
The prime minister shared concern on the rise of Islamophobia around the world, particularly in Europe.
He stated that publication of blasphemous caricatures and issuance of divisive statements in the name of freedom of expression had hurt the sentiments of Muslims across the world.
He underlined that there was a need for understanding the special reverence that the Muslims had for the holy Prophet (PBUH).
The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of the recent terrorist attacks in Europe.
Underlining the importance of respect for every religion, the prime minister underscored the need for assiduous efforts to promote inter-faith harmony.
Chairman Sefik Dzaferovic extended a cordial invitation to Prime Minister Imran Khan to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Prime Minister accepted the invitation and said he looked forward to visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina at an early date.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2020