President Dr Arif Alvi on Friday said Islam stresses upon affinity and harmony among the mankind and called upon the Ulema (religious leaders) to play a positive role in diffusing the ongoing proscribed Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protest which has disrupted life across Punjab and the twin cities for more than a week.

The president expressed these views in a consultative meeting with a delegation of Ulema of Ahle-e-Sunnat Wal Jamaat from different districts across the country led by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Noor ul Haq Qadri, at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.

The meeting deliberated upon various options to address the ongoing TLP protests in a peaceful manner and emphasized on resolving the matter through negotiations.

So far at least five police officials were killed and hundreds others sustained injuries in clashed between security forces and the proscribed TLP.

President Alvi said since the establishment of Pakistan, the Ulema always played a significant role in providing moral and religious guidance to people besides standing with the State in difficult times.

He said the present government raised voice against Islamophobia and for the sanctity of Prophet Muhammad (peace Bb upon him) at all international fora and advocated the stance in an effective manner.

He mentioned that the government also set up the Rehmatul Lil Alameen Authority, which would promote the glowing teachings of the Prophet (pbuh) and guide the nation to follow his footsteps for success in this life and hereafter.

"Islam is a religion of peace and urges the mankind to practice brotherhood and tolerance," he said, adding Islam also stresses protecting lives and properties of each other and discourages acts of violence.

The Ulema expressed concern over the reports of violence perpetrated by the activists and workers of the TLP causing harm to the lives and properties of public and security officials.

They stressed that violence would negatively impact the image of the country and Islam. The Ulema offered their support and services to resolve the situation peacefully and in an amicable way.

After a meeting of the National Security Committee on Friday, Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed announced that the government had not closed doors to talks with the proscribed TLP but it had to enforce writ of the State at all cost.