Pakistan has made progress in religious tolerance

Our readers have their say about Pakistan, the Philippines, the Vatican and the importance of traditions.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan. AP

I write in reference to your letter Pakistan should learn from the UAE's brand of tolerance (February 12): Allen Fernandes's comments were uncalled for and were sad as well as misleading.

At the time of independence in 1947, Muhammad Ali Jinnah had categorically guaranteed the rights of all citizens, including minorities. The Pakistan Constitution guarantees reserved seats for minorities in Parliament.

Recently, prime minister Imran Khan opened the widely acclaimed Kartarpur corridor to facilitate visits from Sikh pilgrims to their holy shrines in Pakistan. He then went on to announce a university to be set up named after Guru Nanak.

Mohammad Hamza, Dubai

Filipinos should get to decide their country’s name

I refer to your article titled Rodrigo Duterte wants to rename the Philippines 'Maharlika'  (February 13): this would not be the first time a country or a city decides to change its name, so if the Filipino people are happy with Mr Duterte's suggestion, I think they should go ahead and implement it.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

The UAE and Vatican share a multinational population

I write to you regarding Sofia Barbarani's article Secret passages and the world's best post office (February 13). The article lists little-known facts about the Vatican that could be useful for people planning a trip there. I was surprised to see that the UAE and the Vatican have some unexpected points in common. For example, the Vatican is the only place in the world with a 100 per cent expatriate population. Although it doesn't match that percentage, the UAE also has a large number of residents who come from overseas.

Bob Myerscough, UK

Traditions endow us with a real sense of community

I refer to your article titled Sheikha Mariam: UAE traditions imperative to country's future (February 12):  I believe that maintaining a country's ancient traditions should be of the utmost importance to everyone, regardless of their background. Honouring our traditions and our history can only endow us with a sense of identity and continuity that connects us to past generations and gives us insight about our future. I totally agree with Sheikha Mariam's speech on this important matter.

Kathie Daniel, Dubai