Islamabad - May 24, 2004 [Press Release] : His Excellency, the President of Pakistan, General Pervez Musharraf held a dinner in honour of His Holiness, Dr. Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin, the spiritual leader of the Dawoodi Bohra Community, at the Ewan-e-Sadr on Monday night.

Also present on the occasion were Minister for Religious Affairs. Zakat and Ushr, Ejazul Haq; Chairman Senate, Mohammed Mian Soomro and the Minister for Trade and Commerce.

The President in his eloquent welcome speech said that he was indeed pleased that His Holiness was here on the occasion of his 93rd birthday and hoped that Dr. Burhanuddin would also celebrate his 100th birthday here. He added that he knew that His Holiness knew no respite from his various travels and invited Syedna to visit Pakistan in every one of these sojourns.

Regarding Syedna Burhanuddin’s followers the President said that the Dawoodi Bohra community was one of the finest examples of humanity to mankind; their hallmark being their integrity and fair dealing. The President hoped that Syedna’s stay here would be a pleasant one.

His Holiness Dr. Burhanuddin, in his address, which began with expressing gratitude to Allah, said that he was warmed by the hearty welcome the Government of Pakistan had accorded him. He also quoted a saying of Hazrat Ali RA regarding the numerous benefits of traveling.

Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin is due to travel to Karachi later his week where his followers are preparing to celebrate his 93rd birthday with much fanfare. This joyous occasion will commemorate nine decades of the life and times of a benevolent father who has lead his community with care and concern to religious, special and economic distinction.