Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel has concluded his visit to Istanbul, Türkiye to participate in the 51st Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Delivering the national statement at the session held under the theme “OIC in a transforming world”, Minister Dr Khaleel stressed on the urgency of strengthening the effectiveness of OIC and fostering cooperation among the Member States to address the challenges faced by Muslim Ummah today, and to uphold the values of peace and justice.
Reflecting on the deteriorating situation in Palestine, the Minister expressed deep concern over the continued and escalating acts of violence by Israel which has led to immense destruction and suffering in Gaza and for the Palestinian people.
Minister Dr. Khaleel reiterated the Maldives’ long-standing position in support of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. He called on the international community and the OIC Member States to work towards the recognition of Palestine, emphasizing that such recognition is long overdue and is essential to achieving lasting peace and justice in the region.
He further condemned the ongoing attacks against Iran by Israel and raised concerns over the lack of accountability and disregard for international law by Israel.
The Maldives delegation participated in the special session convened on the sidelines of the Council of Foreign Ministers session to discuss the Israeli regime’s aggression against Iran.
On the sidelines of the Council of Foreign Ministers session, the Minister also met with the Foreign Minister of Tajikistan. Discussions focused on collaborative efforts within the OIC and enhancing bilateral ties in areas of mutual interest.
The Council of Foreign Ministers Session held annually brings together the Foreign Ministers from Member States of OIC to address and explore actionable solutions to issues central to the Muslim Ummah.
During the visit, Minister Dr. Khaleel was accompanied by Permanent Representative of Maldives to OIC, Ahmed Sareer, Ambassador of Maldives to Türkiye, Lieutenant General (Retd) Abdul Raheem Abdul Latheef, Director Fathimath Razana and Counsellor at Embassy of Maldives in Türkiye, Aishath Raihana.