The appointment comes at a critical time amid changes in the Muslim world and key ties between Pakistan and Islamic and Gulf states.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday appointed Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi, chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council, as coordinator for religious harmony and for the Pakistani diaspora in the Middle East and Muslim countries.
The appointment comes at a critical time amid evolving developments in the Muslim world and the strategic importance of Pakistan’s relations with the Gulf and other Islamic states.
Ashrafi previously served as Special Representative and brings extensive experience in religious diplomacy, interfaith engagement and international outreach. In his new role, he will be responsible for strengthening coordination, improving mutual understanding and further improving Pakistan’s relations with Islamic and Arab countries.
He has played an important and widely recognized role in promoting interfaith and inter-sectarian harmony, tolerance and peaceful coexistence in Pakistan.
Ashrafi is a member of the Supreme Council of the Muslim World League and is affiliated with several leading international and Islamic organizations. He also maintains close and long-standing personal ties with prominent Islamic scholars and figures in the Arab and Muslim world.
