OIC convenes extraordinary session on Afghan crisis on Sunday

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has decided to convene an extraordinary session of the OIC Executive Meeting in Saudi Arabia’s city Jeddah on Sunday to discuss the evolving situation in Afghanistan, the OIC secretary general informed Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday.

OIC Secretary General Yousef bin Ahmad Al-Othaimeen, in a telephonic conversation, apprised FM Qureshi that the meeting would gather ambassadors and permanent representatives to deliberate on the rapidly changing situation in Afghanistan.

The foreign minister underscored that Pakistan would continue to play its constructive role in promoting sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan, the foreign office said in a statement.

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The minister expressed the hope that all Afghan parties would work for an inclusive political settlement. "The success of negotiations in Kabul would not only benefit Afghanistan, but also the region," he added.

FM Qureshi stressed on the importance of ensuring the safety, security and protection of the rights of Afghan people.

He emphasised that it was imperative for the international community to remain engaged with Afghanistan by supporting the country’s economy, reconstruction, rehabilitation and humanitarian needs.

It was also important for the Muslim Ummah to show its traditional solidarity with the Afghan people in their quest for a peaceful, united, stable and prosperous Afghanistan, he added.

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Noting the significance of efforts towards establishing an inclusive government, the foreign minister warned about spoilers within and outside Afghanistan, who wanted to take advantage of the situation in the country.

FM Qureshi highlighted the role played by Pakistan in facilitating the evacuation and relocation of personnel of diplomatic missions, international organisations, media and others from Afghanistan.

He expressed the hope that the talks in Kabul would succeed, leading to an inclusive and participatory government that would bring lasting peace, progress and prosperity to Afghanistan.