Banjul (Kubha News )— The Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), speaking at the 15th Islamic Summit Conference in Banjul, emphasized a humanitarian approach and constructive dialogue with the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan.
In his address to the summit, the Secretary-General reiterated the OIC’s commitment to engagement with the de facto authorities in Afghanistan. He urged member countries to support Afghanistan through the Afghanistan Humanitarian Trust Fund (AHTF), under the supervision and management of the Islamic Development Bank.
“Continuing our interaction within the framework of a humanitarian approach and constructive dialogue with the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan is crucial,” stated the Secretary-General. “We urge member states to contribute generously to our humanitarian efforts, particularly through the AHTF.”
Hissein Brahim Taha called on the OIC Member States to continue to mobilize international support for the recognition of the State of Palestine and help it attain full membership in the United Nations.
Highlighting the importance of dialogue and reconciliation, the Secretary-General reaffirmed the OIC’s support for conflict resolution in Member States, including Yemen, Libya, Sudan, and the Sahel region.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Taliban confirmed the participation of Abdul Qahar Asi, spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and head of the International Organizations Department, in the summit. Asi attended the meeting at the official invitation of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
The 15th Islamic Summit Conference, themed ‘Enhancing Unity and Solidarity through Dialogue for Sustainable Development’, commenced on May 4, 2024, in the presence of heads of states and governments of OIC member states, along with high-level dignitaries from non-member states.
Addressing the summit, the President of The Gambia and Chairman of the OIC Summit, Adama Barrow, pledged to promote unity, solidarity, and sustainable development within the Islamic world. He emphasized initiatives to enhance economic cooperation, foster cultural exchange, and address critical issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare access.
The summit is set to continue until May 5, 2024, with discussions expected to focus on furthering cooperation and dialogue among member states to achieve common goals.