Meeting Between the OIC Secretary-General and the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan

In Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan, the Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), H.E. Mr. Hissein Brahim Taha, had a meeting with the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, H.E. Mr. Bakhtiyor Saidov.

During the meeting, the Secretary-General commended Uzbekistan's active engagement in the OIC and its firm commitment to the Organization's objectives and vision. He noted that hosting OIC events successfully and actively participating in OIC programs and initiatives demonstrate the Government's clear interest in this regard.

Referring to the rich heritage of the great thinkers of the Muslim world and their invaluable contributions to the development of world science and civilization, the Secretary-General stated that the selection of Khiva as the OIC City of Tourism for 2024 was an important recognition of the Government of Uzbekistan's efforts to showcase their heritage. He expressed his sincere appreciation for Uzbekistan's outstanding hospitality and meticulous arrangements in hosting the 12th Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers in Khiva from 31 May to 2 June 2024. This event will significantly contribute to the promotion of tourism and cultural exchange among OIC member states, showcasing Uzbekistan's rich heritage to the world.

The Secretary-General also acknowledged the remarkable socio-economic progress and development in Uzbekistan, highlighting its substantial efforts towards regional socio-economic integration. The meeting encompassed a wide array of regional and global issues on the OIC agenda.

Briefing on the engagements of the Ministerial Committee assigned by the Joint Arab Islamic Extraordinary Summit on Gaza, H.E. Mr. Taha called for efforts to stop the Israeli aggression against the Gaza Strip, the city of Rafah, and its surroundings. He emphasized the importance of an immediate ceasefire and the need to introduce sufficient and sustainable humanitarian aid across all parts of the Strip.

Regarding Afghanistan, the Secretary-General praised Uzbekistan's pivotal role in fostering peace, security, and stability, alongside advancing socio-economic development. He also commended Uzbekistan for its efforts in providing essential humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people. On his part, the Foreign Minister briefed the Secretary-General about the Uzbek Government's engagement with Afghanistan in different aspects to address Afghanistan’s economic and security challenges.