Istanbul: The Istanbul Declaration was adopted on Sunday during the 51st Council of Foreign Ministers session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), held under the theme "a Transforming World". The declaration underscores the organization's commitment to enhancing unity among member states and addressing various geopolitical challenges.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the OIC members expressed their aspiration to play a more significant role in the international arena amidst global fragmentation and shifting geopolitical landscapes. They emphasized the need for reforms to elevate the OIC as a pivotal international actor in fostering regional and global stability.
The declaration reaffirmed the centrality of the Palestinian cause, supporting the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. It also called for a United Nations High-Level Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, to advance the two-state solution.
The OIC condemned Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, labeling them as genocidal and obstructive to humanitarian assistance. The organization demanded an immediate ceasefire and urged the international community to support Palestine through political and financial means.
The declaration also highlighted the importance of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and called for continued international support for its efforts to aid Palestine refugees. Additionally, the OIC rejected any attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians and condemned Israel's attempts to alter the civilizational features of Al-Quds Al-Sharif.
The session also addressed regional issues, expressing solidarity with Pakistan amidst military escalations in South Asia and condemning Israel's recent attacks on Iran, Syria, and Lebanon. The OIC emphasized the need for dialogue and adherence to bilateral agreements to ensure regional peace and stability.
The declaration concluded with a call to combat Islamophobia and extremism, urging the international community to take measures against hate speech and discrimination based on religion or ethnicity. The OIC reiterated that terrorism and extremism should not be associated with any religion or nationality.