ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Imran Khan met the Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Dr. Yousef A. Al-Othaimeen in Makkah on Sunday.
Highlighting the rise of Islamophobic incidents in different parts of the world, the Pakistani premier stressed the importance of a concerted response from the OIC. It was noted that following the Prime Minister’s letter addressed to Heads of State of Muslim countries, the OIC Council of Foreign Minister (CFM) in Niamey had adopted a unanimous resolution on observing 15 March as International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
Khan emphasised that it had to be a collective endeavour of the Muslim leadership to make sure that the world recognised the special love and reverence that Muslims had for the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Secondly, it was imperative not to allow anyone to create any linkage between Islam and terrorism. The Prime Minister called upon the international community to show a common resolve against intolerance and incitement to violence on the basis of religion or belief and work together for inter-faith harmony and peaceful co-existence.
PM Imran strongly condemned the Israeli attack against Palestinians in Qibla-e- Awaal, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and reiterated his call on the international community to take steps to protect the Palestinians and their legitimate rights. The Prime Minister also called upon the OIC to play its rightful role in addressing the serious situation.
The Secretary General shared information with the Prime Minister on the OIC’s activities in support of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. The OIC has steadfastly supported the Kashmir cause and in this context the Niamey CFM culminated with a comprehensive resolution on the issue.
The Prime Minister and Secretary General discussed Pakistan-OIC collaboration on a range of issues. The Prime Minister stated that Pakistan was looking forward to hosting the 48th Session of the Council of Foreign Minister.
