Banjul, 1st May 2024: The preparatory sessions of the 15th OIC Summit by senior officials of the governments of member states have entered day 2 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Banjul.
During the opening of the sessions on Tuesday, April 30th, the Permanent Secretary at the Gambian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Lang Yabou on behalf of the people and Government of The Gambia warmly welcomed delegates to the preparatory meeting.
“As experts and senior officials, our deliberations and contributions to the outcome document are very critical to the success of the Summit. During our meetings and interactions in these two days, we shall be assisted by our colleagues from the OIC General Secretariat, particularly the experts from the Legal Department, on substantive matters that have legal implications to enable us to make informed decisions on the various agenda items before us,” he reminded the delegates.
The Gambian diplomat cautioned that the Ummah is witnessing challenges of unprecedented proportions affecting citizens of member states.
“We are meeting at a time when the larger international community, especially members of the Ummah, are going through unprecedented conflicts and geopolitical tensions that require our urgent attention. Violent extremism, terrorism and genocidal actions have become normalised in certain parts of our world,” he warned.
Mr Yabou went on to advise that it is time for decisive, bold and holistic actions that are informed by humanitarian, developmental and diplomatic dimensions in the search for effective and durable solutions to the shared challenges.
“As experts who are trusted by our leaders and people and, assigned the responsibility of charting an acceptable outcome for the Summit, we must do so, with only noble objectives in mind, i.e the absolute imperative of ensuring peace, security, stability and development for humanity, especially the unprivileged communities of the Ummah”.
The Permanent Secretary further underscored the need for increased solidarity, cooperation and coordination of efforts “while building mutual trust between and among ourselves as brothers and sisters facing similar challenges and issues”. He suggested that matters of mutual concern and interest be addressed through solidarity, dialogue and compassion, noting that these are values that are Islamic, enduring and universal.
“You are once again welcome, and from the deep depths of our hearts, we thank you for coming to the Smiling Coast of Africa to attend the 15th OIC Islamic Summit Conference.
On behalf of His Excellency the President and the entire nation,I seize this opportunity to thank you for supporting our efforts in hosting the Summit. By trusting us with the chairmanship of this noble and great organisation we assure you that we will not disappoint you,” Mr Yabou concluded.
We look forward to working closely with all of you in the service of the ummah and the larger international community during our chairmanship. We will continue to rely on your support and cooperation at all times.
