Islamabad, 20 April 2022 (TDI): Pakistan strongly denounced the recent Islamophobic act of destruction of the Holy Quran during rallies in Sweden and the Netherlands, according to a press statement issued by the Pakistani embassy in the Netherlands on Tuesday.
Press Release;
Pakistan strongly condemns recent Islamophobic incidents in Sweden and The Netherlands@ForeignOfficePk pic.twitter.com/HLzEgJPbT9— Pakistan Embassy Netherlands (@PakinNetherland) April 18, 2022
It was noted from the Foreign Office of Pakistan, that a Dutch politician made disrespectful remarks against Islam and the Muslims during the holy month of Ramazan, which Pakistan strongly denounced. “These foolish, aggressive Islamophobic actions serve no purpose other than to aggravate the sensitivities of the world’s 1.5 billion Muslims.”
According to the FO statement, such actions are not protected by legitimate expressions of the right to freedom of expression or opinion, which entail duties under international human rights law, such as the requirement not to engage in hate speech or encourage violence.
Moreover, the Foreign Office in a statement also said, “Muslims, including in Pakistan, unequivocally condemn the practice of insulting Islam, Christianity, and Judaism alike and stand against all acts of violence on the basis of religion or belief. These principles must be equally respected and supported by all.”
The world community must unite in its opposition to xenophobia, intolerance, and incitement to violence based on religion or belief, and collaborate to promote interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence. That was the spirit underlying the OIC’s recent move at the UN General Assembly, spearheaded by Pakistan, to establish March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
The authorities in Sweden and the Netherlands have been informed of Pakistan’s concerns. They have been advised to consider the sentiments of Pakistanis and Muslims worldwide and take action to prevent Islamophobic events.
Condemnation of the attacks against Muslims
Meanwhile, the Foreign Office also condemned the recent spate of targeted attacks against the Muslim community in various Indian states by “fanatic Hindu mobs,” calling on the international community to hold the country accountable “for its gross and widespread human rights violations.” Mariana Babar adds.
