ISLAMABAD: The Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) convened its 22nd extraordinary session in Jeddah, adopting two key resolutions addressing recent regional and international developments, including Israel’s recognition of the so-called “Somaliland” and the ongoing situation in Palestine.
In this regard, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar represented Pakistan at the high-level meeting.
So far, one of the resolutions strongly condemned Israel’s recent announcement recognising Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, describing it as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability.
Furthermore, Somaliland, a self-declared region of Somalia, is not recognised as an independent state by the international community.
The move followed statements by Somaliland’s president indicating an intention to join the Abraham Accords, and a visit by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, which Somalia denounced as an unauthorised incursion.
In such a case, OIC Secretary General Taha said the extraordinary meeting was taking place at a “very delicate and sensitive time,” mentioning serious developments affecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
He termed Israel’s recognition of Somaliland a “dangerous precedent” and confirmed the OIC’s firm support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and independence in line with the OIC Charter, international law, and relevant United Nations resolutions.
The secretary general noted that the meeting followed an earlier extraordinary session of the OIC Executive Committee held on January 1, reflecting shared concern among member states and the need for a unified and clear Islamic position on the matter.
Meanwhile, the second resolution focused on the situation in Palestine, condemning Israel’s continued aggression against the Palestinian people. Secretary General Taha stressed the need to compel Israel, as the occupying power, to proceed to the second phase of the ceasefire agreement.
He called for a comprehensive and permanent cessation of hostilities, a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, the prevention of forced displacement of Palestinians, and the facilitation of the safe return of displaced persons to their homes.
The Council of Foreign Ministers meeting was preceded by a preparatory session attended by senior officials from OIC member states.
In such a scenario, Dar inaugurated the new chancery building of the Consulate General of Pakistan in Jeddah.
The ceremony was attended by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ahmad Farooq, Saudi dignitaries, Consul General Syed Mustafa Rabbani, members of the Pakistani community, and consulate officials.
The event included the hoisting of the Pakistani flag, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tree plantation, and prayers for Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
