Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday appreciated President Vladimir Putin for his statement that disrespecting the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) did not count as an expression of artistic freedom but a “violation of religious freedom.”
The prime minister held a telephonic conversation with President of Russian Federation Vladimir Putin.
Taking to Twitter, the premier said that he spoke to President Putin primarily to express gratitude for his "emphatic statement that freedom of speech could not be a pretext to abuse our Prophet PBUH."
The prime minister said that he had been regularly highlighted the appalling rise in Islamophobia and associated hatred in his addresses to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), pointing towards its serious ramifications.
Both leaders agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in different areas, increase high-level exchanges, and remain in close contact on matters relating to Afghanistan.
PM Imran underscored that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan was pivotal for regional stability.
“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 premier stressed.
PM Imran also underscored the importance of release of Afghanistan’s financial assets for addressing the dire needs of the Afghan people.
He reiterated the government’s resolve for early realization of the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline Project.
PM Imran Khan said he looked forward to President Putin’s visit to Pakistan as well as his own visit to Russia at an appropriate time.