PM lauds Vladimir Putin for taking stand against insulting Holy Prophet (PBUH)

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan has appreciated the emphatic statement of Russian President Vladimir Putin against insulting Holy Prophet Peace Be Upon Him (PBUH).

According to media reports, the President of Russia Vladimir Putin had said last month that insulting Holy Prophet Peace Be Upon Him did not count as an expression of artistic freedom but was a violation of religious freedom. He also criticised the publication of blasphemous sketches of Holy Prophet in French magazine Charlie Hebdo.

PM Imran Khan has held a telephonic conversation with Russian President on Monday.

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During the conversation, the Prime Minister said he has been regularly highlighting the appalling rise in Islamophobia and associated hatred in his addresses to the UN General Assembly, pointing towards its serious ramifications. He underscored that Pakistan’s bilateral relationship with Russia is on an upward trajectory, with an increased focus on trade and economic ties and energy cooperation.

PM Imran Khan also reiterated the government’s resolve for early realization of the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline Project. He underscored that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is pivotal for regional stability.

The Premier said that Afghanistan is facing dire humanitarian and economic challenges and support of the international community to the people of Afghanistan at this critical juncture remained vitally important.

The leaders of both the countries have agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in different areas, increase high-level exchanges, and remain in close contact on matters relating to Afghanistan.