By Fatou Sanneh
The Gambia has officially assumed chairmanship of the Organisation of the Islamic Corporation (OIC) following the 15th Summit held in Banjul in the weekend.
On assuming the Chairmanship His Excellency President Adama Barrow, reiterated the country’s steadfast dedication to championing peace and stability in conflict-ridden regions.
He affirmed The Gambia’s readiness to strengthen dialogue, cooperation, and mediation efforts to resolve conflicts among member states; and articulated a vision of fostering unity and solidarity among member states towards a future characterized by peace, prosperity, and equity.
He further assured that under The Gambia’s Chairmanship of the OIC, agreed strategies and initiatives will be implemented to promote solidarity, unity, and problem-solving among Member States.
“As President of the Republic of The Gambia and Chairman of the OIC for the next three years, we pledge to promote unity, solidarity, and sustainable development within the Islamic world. Our approach will include prioritising initiatives that enhance economic cooperation, foster cultural exchange, and address pressing issues, such as poverty and access to education and healthcare”.
The approach, he went on, will aim at advancing the Organisation’s main objectives. “The Gambia is thus willing to enhance dialogue, cooperation, and mediation to resolve conflicts among Member States”.
Highlighting the urgency of addressing prolonged conflicts, the President specifically underscored the plight of Palestinians, expressing grave concern over the enduring suffering endured for over seventy-five years. He called for decisive action to tackle the root causes of conflicts, including the devastating wars in Gaza, which pose a significant threat to regional stability and global peace.
He urged member states to convene a Comprehensive Peace Conference, bringing together all stakeholders to negotiate a just and lasting solution that upholds the rights, dignity, security, and sovereignty of affected communities.
Emphasising the role of Islamic leaders in charting a path towards peace and reconciliation, the Gambian leader emphasised the importance of seizing the opportunity to foster lasting peaceful co-existence in the region.
