Office of Religious Freedom and efforts to tackle extremism discussed

On 12 October 2012, Canada’s Minister for Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, Jason Kenney MP, visited the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, at the Fazl Mosque in London.

During the hour-long meeting various issues were discussed, including Canada’s forthcoming ‘Office of Religious Freedom’ and efforts to tackle extremism. In terms of the role of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, Minister Kenney said that he had always found it to be an entirely peaceful and law abiding community that contributed positively to Canadian society.

Also discussed was the funding of the ‘Tahir Hall’ which had recently been built by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in Peace Village, Vaughan. Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said that partial-State funding for the project was returned to the Government with much appreciation on his instruction. His Holiness said that whilst the Jamaat was very grateful for the State’s generosity, it felt that the Government could utilise the funds elsewhere and so the Jamaat did not wish to place any undue burden on the State. Minister Kenney referred to this as a ‘remarkable gesture’.

Issues in relation to immigration and the spread of extremism were also discussed. His Holiness remarked that it was necessary to always remain vigilant in the fight against extremism and terrorism. He said that all loopholes which extremists sought to take benefit and advantage from ought to be closed.

Minister Kenney also offered his regret that he was unable to personally receive Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad during his recent tour of Canada. He said that he hoped that the Khalifa would visit Canada again soon.