Ambassador Rahim Hayat Qureshi Celebrates Easter with Pakistani Christian Community in Brussels

BRUSSELS: The Ambassador of Pakistan to the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg, Rahim Hayat Qureshi, celebrated Easter with prominent members of the Pakistani Christian community at a special event held at the Embassy of Pakistan in Brussels on Monday.

The gathering brought together distinguished individuals from the community, including key figures holding leadership positions in churches across Belgium. During his address, Ambassador Qureshi praised the community’s vital role in promoting interfaith harmony and their significant contributions to fostering intercultural understanding within Belgian society.

The ambassador emphasized the Government of Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of minorities, as outlined in the country’s Constitution. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to ensuring equality, religious freedom, and the rule of law for all citizens, regardless of their faith.

Ambassador Qureshi expressed pride in the positive image that the Pakistani diaspora continues to build abroad through their active civic engagement and efforts to promote social cohesion. He encouraged continued efforts to serve as bridges between cultures, highlighting the importance of reflecting Pakistan’s core values of inclusivity and tolerance.

The event also marked a moment of sorrow as Ambassador Qureshi extended his condolences over the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis — a beacon of peace, love, and interfaith harmony. His leadership inspired billions across the globe, far beyond the Catholic Church, through his compassion and unwavering support for the underprivileged,” the ambassador said.

A one-minute silence was observed by all attendees in memory of the late Pope, as a mark of respect and to reflect on his enduring legacy of peace and love.

Read more: Pope Francis Passes Away at 88, Just a Day After Easter Appearance

The event concluded with a reaffirmation of shared values of peace, mutual respect, and coexistence, underscoring the strong bonds of understanding between the Pakistani Christian community and their host country.