Pakistan is hold set to host a meeting of the OIC’s foreign ministers in Islamabad from March 22-23 despite the political uncertainty. It is a great honour for Pakistan to host the summit which will be attended by foreign ministers from Muslim countries.
Pakistan hosted the second OIC Summit in Lahore in 1974 during the era of Z.A. Bhutto. The historic summit is etched in memories even today when heads of state gathered in a symbol of Muslim unity. The country hosted an OIC Summit in Islamabad in 1997 on occasion of the Golden Jubilee. Now it is again hosting a meeting coinciding with the 75th anniversary celebrations.
Hosting the summit provides an ideal opportunity for Pakistan to play a leading role in several of the greatest challenges facing the Muslim world. Pakistan hosted a session of OIC foreign ministers last year which focused on the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and called for a unified response. The issue will be raised again as the people of Afghanistan cannot be forgotten.
Among the pressing issues which Pakistan must highlight is the situation of Indian-occupied Kashmir and the growing hostilities towards Muslims in India. The Palestine dispute, a long challenging issue for the body, shall also be raised along with economic and environmental matters. The situation in Yemen, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, Syria and Mali will also be discussed.
The OIC has long been seen a talk house which has been unable to resolve the issue facing the Muslim world. The pan-Islamic body needs to make itself more relevant. As Prime Minister pointed out, Islamic countries must navigate the new realities and shape the emerging world to achieve their interests. He said they can do so by defending their territorial sovereignty, avoid involvement in power rivalries, resolving inter-Islamic disputes, and prevent foreign intervention to achieve peace and justice.
The OIC represents the collective voice of the Islamic world. It has a responsibility to resolve disputes, through dialogue, promote peace and mutual respect. The upcoming session in Islamabad provides the opportunity to discuss the challenges and find solutions to these grave problems.
