Baghdad:The 52nd session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers convened in Baghdad, with representatives from 55 member states, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, and delegates from around 40 other organizations attending the opening session. Ambassador Hassanein Kamel, the official spokesperson for the meeting, highlighted Iraq’s leadership role in the event.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Turkish Foreign Minister, who presided over the previous session, opened the meeting before Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein took over the presidency. Minister Hussein underscored the significance of Baghdad’s hosting in promoting joint Islamic endeavors and addressing regional and global challenges. He emphasized the Palestinian issue as a primary concern, advocating for an end to the Israeli occupation and the protection of Palestinian rights.

Ambassador Kamel reiterated the need for enhanced economic and commercial collaboration among member states, stressing the importance of investment, development partnerships, and peaceful crisis resolution. He further called for improved performance of the OIC and practical initiatives to meet the aspirations of Islamic peoples, while emphasizing Iraq’s aim to bridge differences and coordinate on key issues.

Prime Minister Ali Falih Al-Zaidi urged increased cooperation among OIC nations, reaffirming Iraq’s commitment to the Palestinian cause. He introduced an initiative for greater connectivity in transport, energy, telecommunications, and other sectors, aiming for economic integration and shared solutions to common challenges.

OIC Secretary-General Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed highlighted the need for ongoing joint economic projects and efforts to counter Israeli policies in Jerusalem.