Permanent Observer for the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) to the UN ambassador Hameed Ajibaiye Opeloyeru has emphasised the importance of the pioneering role played by Qatar, under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, in supporting the issues of the Islamic nation at the international level and within the halls of the UN and all its affiliated agencies and organisations.
In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), Opeloyeru said the OIC appreciates the role played by Qatar under the leadership of His Highness the Amir and his active participation in the UN General Assembly in serving the issues of the Islamic nation, foremost among them the Palestinian cause, as well as issues related to Islamophobia.
He added that Qatar made significant efforts within the framework of the UN to support issues related to economic growth, education, community development, and women's empowerment. These are pioneering efforts with positive impacts that are reflected at the international and regional levels, which also contribute to serving Islamic countries and strengthening their presence in global forums.
Opeloyeru underscored the importance of strengthening co-operation between Qatar, the OIC, and all Islamic countries within the UN, including the Security Council, with the aim of forming a quasi-majority bloc that would provide it with an influential role in addressing and monitoring Islamic issues and defending the interests of Islamic countries.
He highlighted Qatar's significant support for the OIC and the backing of its efforts and actions within the UN to promote international peace and security.
In return, he stressed that the OIC strongly supports Qatar, particularly in its recent stance following the treacherous Israeli attack on Qatari territory. The OIC played a prominent role in the adoption of a resolution condemning the attack at the UN, thanks to the efforts of OIC member states.
Opeloyeru noted that the OIC member states, including Qatar, consistently support the organisation's directions and decisions on various issues, particularly the Palestinian issue, which has effectively contributed to enhancing the success of the organisation's work, particularly at the UN level.
He commended Qatar's positive role in international mediation, affirming its ongoing efforts to consolidate global peace and security.
In this context, he reviewed Qatar's active contribution, alongside Egypt and the US, to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, affirming the OIC's support for these efforts aimed at protecting civilians and achieving a permanent truce. He also reiterated the organisation's condemnation of the unjustified Israeli attack on Qatar, which plays the role of mediator in this regard.
Opeloyeru said that Qatar is a source of pride for Islamic countries, having succeeded in mediating numerous issues in a number of countries. Its efforts have contributed to ending many conflicts, saving lives, and promoting peace globally.
