The foreign ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member countries have adopted a strongly worded statement – sponsored by Pakistan and Turkey – denouncing the increasing attacks on Islam as well as its revered personalities and symbols, while calling for an immediate end to such campaigns.
Speaking at the meeting held on the margins of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly in New York, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed deep concern over the misrepresentation of Islam as well as at the activities that have hurt the feelings of Muslims all over the world, especially the disrespect shown to the most revered personality of Islam.
In the statement, which was approved by the ministerial meeting, serious concern was expressed on the intensification of hate campaigns which were deliberately targeting Muslims and the Islamic religious symbols. The joint statement rejected provocative acts like the holding of the caricature contest to ridicule Islam which was clearly aimed at inciting violence.
The statement takes notes of the important resolutions adopted by the OIC, the UN Human Rights Council and the UNGA condemning attacks on Islam, combating intolerance, negative stereotyping and stigmatisation and discrimination, and incitement to violence against persons based on religion and belief.
In particular, the statement points to various steps proposed by the OIC to foster an environment of peace, religious tolerance and respect as well as measures to be taken by the states in their domestic sphere.
The statement is said to be in line with Pakistan government’s commitment to play its role in garnering support through OIC’s joint action, building solidarity and unity among Muslim countries, standing united for the common cause of upholding the values of Islam, and engaging with other countries to promote a culture of peace and tolerance.
Published in Daily Times, September 30th 2018.