Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad meets with Pope Leo XIV

Maulana Syed Abdul Khabeer Azad, President of Pakistan Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and Khateeb of Badshahi Mosque, Lahore, represented Pakistan at the International Interfaith Peace Conference held in Rome, organized by the Community of Sant’Egidio.

The conference, whose theme was “Christian-Muslim Dialogue and Bold Peace,” brought together more than 300 international delegates and more than 1,000 religious leaders from around the world to promote dialogue, coexistence and global peace.

The event coincided with the 60th anniversary of Our Aetate — the historic Vatican declaration that redefines the Church’s relationship with non-Christian religions. The anniversary was marked by a solemn celebration at the Vatican on October 28 and 29, where His Holiness Pope Leo XIV presided as chief guest and led a Peace Walk at the Colosseum in Rome.

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During his meeting with the Pope, Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad presented the grand narrative and message of Pakistan, which Pope Leo appreciated. He also extended an invitation to the Pope to visit his homeland, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to promoting interreligious dialogue and peace.

“Interfaith harmony is a need of these times and through dialogue, we can lead the world towards peace,” said Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, highlighting the importance of ending violent behavior and promoting respect for humanity.

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Pope Leo XIV thanked the visiting dignitaries and reiterated the need to expand interfaith dialogue globally, reflecting on the lasting impact of Nostra Aetate.

“Sixty years ago, with Nostra Aetate, the seed of hope for interreligious dialogue was planted. Today, this seed has grown into a powerful tree that produces abundant fruits of understanding, friendship, cooperation and peace,” he said.

The Vatican meeting concluded with a Peace Ceremony at the Colosseum, attended by religious leaders and scholars from around the world. In his closing remarks, Pope Leo called for unity and compassion and declared: “Enough of war, with all the pain it causes through death, destruction and exile.”