The Maldives on Saturday called for a more effective Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and collective action to address the mounting challenges facing the Muslim world, during the group’s annual foreign ministers’ summit in Türkiye.
Speaking at the 51st Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul, Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel urged member states to “strengthen the effectiveness of the OIC” and “foster cooperation” to address issues affecting the Muslim Ummah and uphold “the values of peace and justice.”
Khaleel voiced concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning what he described as “continued and escalating acts of violence by Israel,” which he said had caused “immense destruction and suffering” for the Palestinian people.
Reiterating the Maldives’ longstanding position, he called for the recognition of an independent Palestinian state “based on the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital,” saying such recognition was “long overdue” and vital for “achieving lasting peace and justice in the region.”
Khaleel also condemned Israeli attacks on Iran, criticising what he called a lack of accountability and disregard for international law.
The Maldives delegation participated in a special session held on the sidelines of the conference to discuss Israel’s actions against Iran.
On the margins of the summit, Khaleel held bilateral talks with the Foreign Minister of Tajikistan to discuss collaboration within the OIC and enhancing ties in areas of mutual interest.
The OIC Council of Foreign Ministers meets annually to seek joint responses to political, humanitarian and security challenges across the Muslim world.