The Maldives has called for members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to promote unity and reject hate. Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid made the statement while delivering his remarks at the 49th Council of Foreign Ministers meeting of the OIC being held in Mauritania.
In his remarks, Minister Shahid offered condolences to the people of Türkiye and Syria on behalf of the Maldivian people following the devastating earthquake that has affected both countries. He called on the international community to accelerate relief efforts and assistance.
Additionally, Minister Shahid noted that hateful acts such as the recent acts of burning and desecration of the Quran will only strengthen the Islamic community’s resolve against hate and extremism. He further called on the OIC to recognise the threat of climate change as one that requires urgent action.
Furthermore, Minister Shahid expressed solidarity with Muslims across the world and reaffirmed the strong commitment of the Maldives to the Palestinian people, in securing their inalienable right to statehood. He called for the establishment of a sovereign and independent State of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital and for support and solidarity with the Rohingya Muslims in their struggle to live a life dignity that is free of fear.