Islamic preacher Zakir Naik has stressed the need for the Muslim Ummah to set aside their differences and unite amid the growing challenges in the world.

“The Muslim community must come together and forget their disputes,” he told anchorpersons in Islamabad on Tuesday.

The Islamic preacher arrived in Pakistan on Monday where he would meet with senior parliamentarians and politicians. He also met with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

The tour, which kicks off on October 5 in Karachi and concludes in Islamabad on October 20, will see Dr Naik deliver lectures in three major cities.

Special security arrangements have been made for his visit to Sindh’s capital. He is set to meet with esteemed scholars such as Mufti Taqi Usmani and Mufti Munib-ur-Rehman.

While reflecting on his past, Naik mentioned that he has faced accusations of having connections with terrorist elements multiple times. “Many allegations against me have been made in the past.”

He expressed gratitude that, over time, all the accusations against him have been proven false. “By the grace of Allah, all the charges levelled against me have been shown to be incorrect,” Naik said.

The Islamic preacher also highlighted the importance of prayer, stating: “The best time to pray is during Tahajjud.”

He lamented that Muslims around the world “are not united” and added that “many are distant” from the teachings of Islam. “Today’s Muslims are far removed from the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah,” he remarked.

Earlier in the day, Dr Naik visited the National Assembly to meet with Speaker Ayaz Sadiq. The meeting focused on “important issues,” including interfaith harmony.

The preacher said: “The people of Pakistan are very loving and hospitable.”

NA Speaker Sadiq said: “Islam is a complete way of life, conveying messages of peace, tolerance, and love.” He stressed the need for the Muslim Ummah to work together and support one another.

Sadiq further stated that the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees equal rights for all citizens, ensuring full protection of minority rights in the country. He highlighted that the solution to the challenges faced by the Muslim Ummah lies in unity and solidarity.

Dr Naik reiterated that Islam is a religion of peace, love, and brotherhood. He praised Pakistan’s role in promoting unity among Muslims.

Accompanied by the NA speaker, he also toured the assembly hall.

Later, Dr Naik arrived at the residence of Maulana Fazlur Rehman for a meeting.