Press Release
Eid Milad-ul-Nabi Celebration at ISSI
The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) celebrated the auspicious occasion of Eid Milad-ul-Nabi on 30th October, 2020.
The blessed ceremony began by introductory remarks by Mr. Najam Rafique, Dir. Research, Center for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) and Editor, ISSI. He paid his humble homage to the Beloved Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Even though we celebrate Milad-un-Nabi today, he stated, the faith is projected as intolerant religion. This is an anti-thesis to Islam itself, he said. It is strange that the world, especially the West, chooses to ignore the Life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) which is embodiment of kindness, forgiveness, generosity and peace. His messages and sermons to mankind stand as testament to the highest priority he assigned to peace and justice and also impressed upon his followers to abide by. His covenants with the Jews of Medina and the monks of St. Catherine at Sinai are a testament to his respect for other faiths.
Director General ISSI, Amb. Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry wished everyone a blessed Eid Milad-un-Nabi. He stated that there is no denying the fact that Prophet Muhammad is a towering personality that has no parallel in history. He pointed out the fact that more authentic writings have come from the Western sources, especially those person who embraces Islam later on. He cited two books, in this regard: Muhammad by Martin Lings and; A Biography of Muhammad by Karen Armstrong.
Chairman BOG-ISSI, Amb. Khalid Mahmood began his speech by stating that the Holy Prophet (PBUH) was, is, will be a beacon of light to mankind. He recited some of the Prophet’s sayings in an effort to highlight the message of peace, inter-faith harmony, and mercy for all and particularly referred to his last sermon.
Director Arms Control and Disarmament (ACDC), Mr. Qasim Mustafa, Director Center for Middle East and Africa (CMEA), Ms. Amina Khan, Director China-Pakistan Study Center (CPSC), Dr. Talat Shabbir, Mr. Asadullah on behalf of Director India Study Center (ISC), Dr. Saif Malik, and ISSI Library Officer paid tribute to the Prophet (PBUH) and shed light on different aspects of his life and teachings. Mr. Qasim Mustafa suggested presenting a well-studied narrative on this issue as well since the right of freedom of expression is often misused. Referring to the Prophet’s teachings and practices, Ms. Amina Khan talked about the women rights laid down by the Holy Prophet. Dr. Talat Shabir elaborated upon the importance of dealings with the people that the Holy Prophet (PBUH) assigned in all matters. Mr. Asadullah spoke about how the Prophet protected the rights of minorities and that Islam is the religion for the entire mankind.
The function concluded with a Naat in honor of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by Mr. Muhammad Saleem, a member of the ISSI staff.
