PM Shehbaz calls for national unity, youth character-building in light of Seerah

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday stressed the need for the moral and educational development of the younger generation in light of the teachings and character of Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to secure a stable and prosperous future for the country.

Speaking at the National Seerat Conference held to mark the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awal (Eid Milad-un-Nabi) in Islamabad, the prime minister said that this year’s conference focuses on the theme: “The protection, development, and character of the new generation in the light of the Prophet’s biography.”

The prime minister — addressing a gathering of religious scholars, researchers and diplomats from across the Muslim world— stated that the trajectory of Pakistan’s future depends directly on the values instilled in its youth today.

“The new generation is the center of the entire nation’s hopes; it is our bright future,” Sharif said. “The question before us is what kind of Pakistan we want to see in the future. The answer is simple: the kind of generation we prepare today will dictate our future tomorrow.”

He emphasized that the life of the holy prophet  (PBUH) offers a complete code of conduct across all spheres of life, citing key historical milestones such as the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah for strategic foresight, the patience displayed during the events of Taif, and the establishment of brotherhood (Muwakhat) between the Muhajir and Ansar in Medina.

He urged the nation to adopt these principles to overcome contemporary social and economic challenges.

The prime minister detailed government measures aimed at reforming the country’s education system to reflect ethical and moral values.

He recalled directing the Ministry of Education two years ago to embed the holy prophet (PBUH)’s moral teachings into the national curriculum.

He commended the National Rahmatul-lil-Aalameen Wa Khatam-un-Nabiyyin Authority for developing a comprehensive educational framework that has already been implemented in the Federal Capital, with provincial governments moving forward on similar lines.

Addressing the religious leadership, PM Sharif called on seminaries across the country to produce scholars who excel not only in religious knowledge but also in moral conduct and civic duty.

He emphasized that religious leaders occupying the pulpit must lead the nation toward unity, hard work, and honesty.

The prime minister also spoke about counteracting sectarian divisions and ideological polarization in the country.

PM Sharif reminded the audience of the spirit of the Pakistan Movement, noting that under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Muslims of all schools of thought united behind a single cause.

“Sectarianism spreads when we create separate identities and turn toward separate centers,” Sharif said. “When the center is one, the inevitable result is solidarity and unity.”

Drawing an analogy to the Holy Mosques in Mecca and Medina, he noted that Muslims from every school of thought pray behind a single Imam during pilgrimage.

He urged religious leaders to bring that same spirit of tolerance, sacrifice, and unity back to their local communities.

He also cautioned the public against opportunistic elements seeking to exploit academic or religious disagreements to foster hatred, noting that intellectual disagreement within civilized boundaries historically enriched Islamic tradition.

Diplomatic partnerships and regional peace

Highlighting Pakistan’s foreign policy and regional diplomatic initiatives, Prime Minister Shehbaz praised international efforts aimed at de-escalating conflicts in the Middle East.

He specifically commended the role of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Pakistan’s diplomatic corps in working alongside regional allies to achieve a temporary ceasefire in recent Gulf tensions.

Sharif highlighted the support of Saudi Arabia and Turkey, acknowledging Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for standing firmly with Pakistan during difficult periods.

Acknowledging the presence of diplomats, including Turkish Ambassador Dr Mehmet Paçacı (Nazir Oglu) and representatives from Saudi Arabia, the prime minister called for a round of applause for the partner nations, attributing the successful outcome of the treaty of Mecca to joint diplomatic efforts.

Concluding his address, the prime minister reiterated that the holy prophet (PBUH)’s message was one of global peace, universal mercy, and respect for humanity, regardless of faith or background.

He cited historical accounts of the holy prophet (PBUH)’s compassionate treatment toward non-Muslims, including the daughter of Hatim al-Tai, as evidence of Islam’s foundational commitment to human dignity and hospitality.

Sharif urged citizens and scholars alike to project this message through their personal conduct, ensuring that no individual is harmed by hand or tongue, and working collectively toward a dignified, stable Pakistan.

PM Sharif distributed awards and commendations to authors and researchers whose literary works on the life of the holy prophet (PBUH) were selected for national recognition.