The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) said on Sunday that it would seek to help achieve peace in Afghanistan and to facilitate evacuation operations from the country.
During an emergency meeting of the 57-member body to discuss the situation in Afghanistan, OIC Secretary-General Dr. Yousef bin Ahmed Al-Othaimeen called on the Taliban to respect international humanitarian law and the right to life and security.
Al-Othaimeen added that the organization expected a comprehensive dialogue and national reconciliation from the authorities in Afghanistan.
The OIC’s final communiqué said that member states were concerned about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Afghanistan as a result of the influx of displaced people.
It added that the organisation is committed to helping Afghanistan and bringing peace to the country.
The OIC stands with the Afghan people and emphasized that their rights should be protected, the statement said.
It also called on Afghan parties to resolve their differences “peacefully.”
The emergency meeting was requested by Saudi Arabia.
He went on, “the international community and the OIC expect the government in power to establish inclusive dialogue with all segments of society, bring national reconciliation to the country, ensure observance of international covenants and agreements, and commit to the international governing norms of the UN Charter and UN resolutions.”
It is also the international community’s duty, and that of the government in power in Afghanistan, Dr Al-Othaimeen stated, to collectively ensure that Afghanistan is never again used as a platform or haven for terrorism and extremism.
The OIC expects the protection of and respect for the right to life, security and dignity for the people of Afghanistan, in compliance with the relevant international human rights instruments and with due respect for the international humanitarian law, he further stressed.
On the humanitarian situation, the OIC Secretary General highlighted the urgent need to address the needs resulting from the continuous influx of IDPs and refugees.
He urged the Member States, the Islamic financial institutions, and partners to act swiftly to render humanitarian aid to affected areas in the country.