Islamophobia commemoration at UN sent 'powerful' message of global unity against phenomenon: Bilawal.

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari Friday wrapped up his 5-day visit to New York, saying that

the first-ever commemoration of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia at the UN sent a "very powerful" message of global unity against the "poison" of Islamophobia.

At the same time, the foreign minister told a press conference that Wednesday's "Women in Islam" event, which he also presided, reflected Islamic countries' commitment to the empowerment of women and gender parity.

"We were unanimous that women have a right to education and those depriving their rights are actually doing so in direct conflict with the religion of Islam," he said.

Both events turned the international spotlight on Pakistan as it continues to play a positive role despite a host of challenges it faces.

FM Bilawal said it was evident from Friday's discussion that the growing phenomenon of Islamophobia should be called out and tackled at every step to create more inclusive and safe spaces for Muslims at individual, community and institutional levels.

The meeting on Islamophobia was co-convened by the President of the General Assembly, Casaba Korosi, and FM Bilawal as the Chair of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers.

Last year, the 193-member Assembly adopted resolution 76/254 designating March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

The foreign minister said the world must realize that perpetuating discrimination, hostility and violence towards Muslim individuals and communities, undercuts the ability of affected Muslims to be Muslims and violates their basic rights and fundamental freedoms.

Replying to a question, he said Pakistan believes that continuing engagement with the Afghan interim government was the best means to achieve the international community's objectives for the observance of human rights, especially women's rights, inclusive governance, and an end to terrorism within and from Afghanistan.

It was also in Pakistan's interest that there is a peaceful, prosperous, stable, secure Afghanistan, at peace with itself and with its neighbours, he said.

"it is also in our interest that the Afghan interim government delivers...