Muhammad Khalid Masud

 My name is Muhammad Khalid Masud. I come from Pakistan to participate in this international meeting for peace. This is my first visit in Barcelona and I am already in love with this city. During these three days this peaceful and fascinating city witnessed an expression of hope, peace and reconciliation in which thousands of people from different religions joined together, summoned by the Community of Sant’Egidio. Let me take this opportunity to bring the voice of Pakistan, a Country which has recently experienced the tragic and traumatic devastation caused by floods. They affected almost 65% of our land, several thousands people have lost their lives and millions are displaced. 

What a huge disaster! We are still struggling to recover from this tragedy. I’d like to express our gratitude for the help that Pakistan received from many Nations and Associations. I must particularly mention the contribution of the Community of Sant’Egidio, namely a Christian community. 

This Community has reminded us the strength and power of prayer even in situations that seem hard if not impossible to change. Therefore let me request all of you to remember Pakistan in your prayers at this time of distress. 

May all violence cease, may people go back to their homes and build a brighter future for their families and their children. Pakistan is very far from here. Yet, I believe that meetings like this one help us to overcome the distances created among different continents. Today we realize that we are under the same sky, under this colorful rainbow and that we can live together in armony, we can raise togheter our prayers to the Almighty God asking for peace and reconciliation. Thank you