Rabat – The 15th Summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) kicked off today in Banjul, Gambia, with the participation of leaders from member countries, including Morocco.
The event is anticipated to draw world leaders from the OIC’s 57 member countries and beyond, with the aim of tackling pressing global challenges while fostering unity and cooperation among nations, the OIC said in a statement ahead of the summit.
Under the theme of “Enhancing Unity and Solidarity through Dialogue for Sustainable Development,” the summit aims to address pressing political, economic, and social issues facing the Islamic world.
Discussions will center on the ongoing crisis in Palestine and the tragic conflict in the Gaza Strip, which has resulted in a staggering loss of life in occupied Palestinian territories.
Representing Morocco at the summit is Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Ahmed Taoufik. The Moroccan delegation, led by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, also includes high-ranking officials and diplomats.
Chaired by Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the opening ceremony saw the attendance of notable figures such as Gambian President Adama Barrow and Hussein Ibrahim Taha, Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
Prior to the summit, foreign ministers convened for meetings at the Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center, discussing a range of topics, including the Palestinian cause, which remains a central issue for the Islamic world.
Throughout the summit, leaders will engage in dialogue on economic, humanitarian, and cultural matters, with a focus on youth empowerment, women’s rights, and technological advancement within Muslim countries.
Key topics on the agenda include combating hate speech and Islamophobia, fostering interfaith dialogue, and addressing climate change and food security challenges.
The summit is equally set to deliberate on three documents, including a draft resolution on Palestine, the Banjul statement, and the final summit document.
The summit is expected to conclude with a declaration reflecting the organization’s stance on the issues discussed, along with resolutions on the cases of Palestine and Jerusalem, and a declaration specific to the host city, Banjul.
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