Organisation of Islamic Cooperation
The Collective Voice of The Muslim World
Date: 05/06/2010
Mr. Chairman Excellenies, Distinguished Participants. At the outset, I would like to express, on behalf of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) and on my own behalf, our heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the Government and people of Brazil for hosting the Third Annual Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations. At the same time, I would also like to extend our thanks and appreciation to the Governments of the two co-sponsoring countries of the AoC, Turkey and Spain. It is encouraging to see the Alliance of Civilizations gaining support and popularity of the international community. From its initial few members, the Group of Friends (GoF) has now exceeded the hundred mark. I am pleased to learn that the United States of America and the OIC Member States of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Palestine are among the latest members to join the GoF. Excellencies, The OIC has cooperated closely with the Alliance since its formative stages. In fact, the OIC shares feeling of particular affinity because the OIC Member State Turkey was one of the co-sponsors of the AoC. Let me reiterate that the OIC stands ready to give its full cooperation to the AoC in its practical and realistic efforts to build bridges between civilizations and cultures. The initiative of His Majesty King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia for an international interfaith dialogue, launched in 2008 and participated by Heads of State/Government and leaders of all segments of society at the events organized in Madrid, UN Headquarters in New York, and in Geneva, stand out as the commitment of the OIC and its Member States for constructive engagement with diverse religions and civilizations. I would like to mention here that the thematic debate on intercultural dialogue for maintenance of peace and security held at UN Security Council on 26 May is significant from the point this debate took place on the eve of the AoC Third Annual Forum. We believe that diversity is our wealth, and that universal human rights principles are our strength. The OIC is committed to combating extremism and intolerance, stereotypes, prejudices, discrimination and distortion of history and religious teachings. We are willing to take up joint projects with the AoC towards consolidation of democratic institutions, good governance, human rights and the rule of law and social development in the key areas of youth, education, media and migration. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate President Sampaio for shouldering his heavy responsibility with wisdom and tenacity. His statesmanship and leadership has brought the Alliance to its present form and I am confident that the institution will continue to gain in strength with his wisdom in the days ahead. In conclusion, let me state that I wish the Rio Forum to be a turning point for the AoC in bringing about a renewed and determined message of confidence building in relations between Muslim and Western societies. Let us take a vow that we will do all what is needed, so that we can celebrate the achievements when we assemble in Doha, Qatar next year. I thank you.
