Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday met Secretary General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Dr Yousef A. Al-Othaimeen and Secretary General of the World Muslim League (WML) Mohammad Al Issa in Makkah.

Highlighting the rise of Islamophobic incidents in different parts of the world, the prime minister stressed on the importance of a concerted response from the OIC during his meeting with Dr Yousef, according to a statement.

It was noted that following the prime minister’s letter addressed to Heads of State of Muslim countries, the OIC Council of Foreign Minister (CFM) in Niamey had adopted a unanimous resolution on observing March 15 as International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

The premier emphasised that it had to be a collective endeavour of the Muslim leadership to make sure that the world recognised the special love and reverence that Muslims have for the Holy Prophet (PBUH). "It was imperative not to allow anyone to create any linkage between Islam and terrorism," PM Imran added.

The prime minister called upon the international community to show a common resolve against intolerance and incitement to violence on the basis of religion or belief and work together for interfaith harmony and peaceful co-existence.

The premier strongly condemned the Israeli attack against Palestinians in Qibla-e- Awaal, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and reiterated his call on the international community to take steps to protect the Palestinians and their legitimate rights. He also called upon the OIC to play its rightful role in addressing the serious situation.

The Secretary General shared information with the premier on the OIC’s activities in support of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. "The OIC has steadfastly supported the Kashmir cause and in this context the Niamey CFM culminated with a comprehensive resolution on the issue," he added.

PM Imran and Dr Yousef discussed Pakistan-OIC collaboration on a range of issues. The prime minister stated that Pakistan was looking forward to hosting the 48th Session of the Council of Foreign Minister.

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The premier also met the Secretary General of the World Muslim League (WML), Mohammad Al Issa separately in Makkah.

During the meeting, the prime minister appreciated the humanitarian efforts of the WML across different parts of the world. He stressed that the organisation was well placed to present the true image of Islam and promote interfaith harmony.

PM Imran highlighted the importance of combating Islamophobia and hoped that the Muslim Ummah would take it up as a unified cause. He also emphasised that the exercise of the right of freedom of expression carried with it responsibilities under international law, such as the obligation not to disseminate racist ideas, defame and ridicule religious symbol and religious personalities.

The premier stressed the importance of bridging the gap in understanding and communication with reference to Islamophobia. He urged Mohammad Al Issa to work towards engaging with all segments of Western society, in particular the academia, civil society organisations, intelligentsia and politicians.

He stressed that the international community must show a common resolve against intolerance and incitement to violence on the basis of religion or belief and work together for peaceful co-existence.

The Secretary General lauded the prime minister’s espousal of Ummah’s causes and stated that he enjoyed an eminent stature in the Muslim world. He also underscored the salience of close Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations and congratulated the prime minister on a highly successful visit.