NEW YORK: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has urged closer alignment between the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the United Nations, saying the two bodies can jointly promote tolerance and peace at a time when conflicts and polarization are deepening worldwide.
Addressing the OIC High-Level Event on Peace and Tolerance in New York, held to commemorate 1500 years since the birth of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), Dar said the collaboration must focus on interfaith dialogue, protection of religious symbols and sites, and collective action against terrorism and violent extremism.
He also pressed for stronger humanitarian mechanisms such as Zakat and Waqf, while highlighting education, science and technology as key drivers to empower youth and women in peacebuilding roles.
Dar described the Charter of Medina as a model for coexistence and mutual respect, adding that the Prophet’s (PBUH) vision of justice and pluralism continues to resonate with the principles of the UN Charter.
The Foreign Office, in a separate statement, quoted Dar as warning of rising Islamophobia and unresolved disputes like Palestine and Kashmir. He called on Muslim states to close ranks and protect fundamental rights while overcoming internal rifts.
Dar reaffirmed that Pakistan remains committed to working with OIC members and the international community to advance shared goals of peace, justice, and tolerance.
