By Makutu Manneh
Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation said Saturday that combating terrorism and extremism remains at the top of their Organisation’s priority.
Hissein Brahim Taha made this statement at the opening of the 15th summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) currently underway in Banjul.
He added that addressing islamophobia and religious hatred is also a priority for their organization since these two vices continue to rear ugly heads in different parts of the world.
“The desecration of copies of Al-Mushaf Ash-Sharif and related incidents has been the focus of our diligent work, and we have held numerous meetings, resulting in significant resolutions,” he informed presidents and country representatives in the gathering.
He said the OIC and its Member States have taken several initiatives at the international level, including the United Nations General Assembly’s (UNGA) declaration of March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
The OIC SG assured members of their continuous readiness in collaborating with the global community in addressing manifestations of intolerance, discrimination and hatred. He added that they are also working on fostering interfaith, intercultural dialogue and promoting tolerance.
He informed the OIC members that the General Secretariat of the OIC is making significant progress in the legal field as the number of countries that have ratified the OIC charter has reached forty.
Taha called on countries to complete the ratification of the amendments related to the change in the periodicity of the Islamic Summit from three years to two years.
“It is crucial to expedite the ratification process of these amendments as the periodicity of the Islamic Summit directly impacts the OIC’s functioning,” he said.
“It is crucial to emphasize the significance of finalizing the procedures for signing and ratifying all the agreements, treaties and fundamental regulations that the OIC has adopted,” he said.
He said some of the OIC essential organs and institutions are yet to function due to the lack of sufficient Member States reaching a quorum for its statutes to enter into force.
Taha added that their organization strives to prevent conflicts and achieve peaceful settlements, primarily through mediation aiming at strengthening their capabilities in this field.
