Key Points
- Pakistan’s Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousuf emphasised the event’s role in strengthening spiritual ties among Muslim nations.
- Around 50 Qaris from 40 OIC member countries are competing, showcasing global Quranic talent.
- Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs is promoting Arabic education and Quranic learning, highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to Islamic scholarship.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday hosted the inaugural International Qirat Competition, with participants from over 40 countries taking part. Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, welcomed the attendees at the Convention Centre, calling the event “historic” and a platform to project Pakistan’s positive image internationally.
Addressing the gathering, the minister highlighted that the competition would strengthen spiritual ties among Muslim nations. He assured participants and judges of top-notch facilities, saying, “You will feel Pakistan as your second home.” Emphasising the significance of Quranic learning, he quoted a Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): “The best among you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”
Sardar Yousuf stressed the importance of Arabic alongside Urdu, Pakistan’s national language, as the language of the Quran. He noted that the Ministry is actively promoting Arabic education in universities nationwide, ensuring that Pakistanis understand the core message of Islam.
The minister also reflected on the ministry’s past initiatives, including the establishment of the Ulema and Mashaikh Council and the Quran Board, and described the competition as a continuation of Pakistan’s commitment to spreading the true message of Islam.
Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Atta ur Rehman, lauded the event as a remarkable achievement, highlighting the overwhelming response from Muslim countries despite short notice. He noted that Pakistanis of all ages and sects cherish listening to the Quran recited beautifully, and expressed confidence that the competition would feature some of the finest Quranic recitations from around the world.
The International Qirat Competition will run until November 27, with the prize distribution ceremony scheduled for November 29.
Around 50 Qaris are taking part in the inaugural International Qirat Competition in Islamabad.
They represent approximately 37–40 countries, all members of the OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation).
The event highlights Pakistan’s role in promoting Quranic recitation on a global stage.
