Faith Matters and Christian and Muslim work cited in the Express Tribune, part of the International Herald Tribune.

Written by Faith Matters | 11 August 2011

ISLAMABAD: Political and religious leaders across Pakistan are being urged to sign a new charter demonstrating their dedication to countering religious hatred.

Besides condemning violence, the Christian-Muslim Covenant of Non Violence in Pakistan urges signatories to actively tackle the root of religious tension and promote interfaith harmony.

The pledge, which has already attracted the high profile backing of Senator Malik Hakmeen Khan and General Secretary of the Human Rights Commission IA Rehman, calls for Christians and Muslims to work together "to bring prosperity to the country for all".

Signatures are being sought from religious leaders and public figures, as well as members of the public looking to register their support for non-violence.

The covenant comes days after Minister of State Akram Masih Gill announced that a Ministry of National Harmony is being created to promote interfaith unity and protect the rights of minorities.

Launched by the interfaith organization Faith Matters, the initiative is part of a wider effort by the not-for-profit group to heal the fractured relation between Muslims and Christians in Pakistan. A series of dialogue sessions between students of both faiths is taking place around the country to promote their shared values.

Director of Faith Matters Fiyaz Mughal said: "This pledge is not simply about condemning violence, it is about getting key religious and public figures to root out the causes of friction in their communities and to actively encourage dialogue between faith groups."

Source: Tribune. http://tribune.com.pk/story/229251/muslim-and-christian-leaders-pledge-interfaith-harmony/