Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam has departed for Iraq to participate in the 52nd Session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers, where member states are expected to discuss the Palestinian situation and ways to strengthen cooperation across the Islamic world.
The meeting will provide a platform for foreign ministers from OIC member countries to address key political, economic and humanitarian challenges affecting Muslim nations, with particular emphasis on protecting Palestinian rights and advancing solidarity among member states.
A major focus of the discussions will be support for the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state. The session is also expected to consider measures to safeguard the Palestinian people and ensure that commitments to their protection are implemented effectively through a comprehensive action plan.
Economic challenges arising from ongoing conflicts will also feature prominently on the agenda, particularly disruptions to food supplies and difficulties in securing essential commodities. Ministers will explore ways to enhance cooperation in agriculture, technology, digitalisation, healthcare and social development to strengthen resilience and promote sustainable development across member states.
The OIC, established in 1969, brings together Muslim-majority countries to promote solidarity, defend the interests of the Muslim world and coordinate efforts on shared political, economic and humanitarian concerns. The Maldives joined the organisation in 1976 and marks 50 years of membership this year.
During her visit to Iraq, Foreign Minister Iruthisham is also scheduled to meet her Iraqi counterpart and hold discussions with other foreign ministers. The engagements are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations and identifying opportunities to expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The Maldives' participation in the ministerial session reflects its continued engagement with the OIC and its support for collective efforts to address issues affecting the Muslim world, particularly the Palestinian cause.
