Marking 50 years in the OIC, Maldives calls for unity of the Islamic Ummah

As the Maldives marks 50 years of membership in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the country has once again reiterated its call to strengthen the unity of the Islamic Ummah and deepen cooperation among Member States. 

The appeal was made by Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam while addressing the 52nd Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers held in Baghdad on Saturday.

In her remarks, Minister Iruthisham highlighted the Maldives’ contributions as an active OIC Member State over the past half-century and affirmed the Government’s continued commitment to working with the OIC to safeguard the shared interests of the Ummah. She underscored the importance of inclusive participation in building peaceful and resilient societies, noting that dialogue and solidarity are essential at a time of global uncertainty. The Minister also outlined national efforts to expand opportunities for persons with disabilities and to enhance the role of women and youth in public life.

Addressing the Palestinian issue, Minister Iruthisham reaffirmed the Maldives’ principled position in support of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. She urged Member States to strengthen cooperation to advance the Palestinian cause.

On the sidelines of the meeting, the Minister met with several OIC Foreign Ministers to discuss ways to further enhance bilateral relations. She was accompanied by Additional Secretary Shiruzimath Sameer and Assistant Director Mohamed Shujau.