Bangladesh PM appeals OIC to stand beside Rohingyas

Dhaka [Bangladesh], May 6 (ANI): Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requested the Muslim countries under the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to stoutly stand beside the forcibly deported Rohingyas to protect their dignity and security.

Addressing the inaugural session of the 45th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of OIC, she told the members of OIC that there is no scope for the organization to overlook this crisis.

"My appeal to the OIC is to stand solidly beside the forcibly deported Rohingyas in safeguarding their dignity and security. The Holy Prophet's (SAW) message for us was to stand beside the distressed humanity. When the Rohingya community of Myanmar is being subjected to 'ethnic cleansing,' the OIC fraternity cannot overlook it," Dhaka Tribune quoted Prime Minister Hasina as saying.

The inaugural began at Bangabandhu International Conference Center (BICC) in Dhaka.

She appealed the OIC to exert international pressure on Myanmar authorities so that it delivers on the ground and speeds up the repatriation process.

Hasina focused on five points before the OIC Foreign Ministers, saying the Muslim world has no reason to fall behind.

Firstly, to have trust in the basic Islamic faith and stop using religion as a tool for divisive political purposes. Secondly, the OIC members should politically resolve their issues without anyone's intervention. Thirdly, to live an enlightened life of self-awareness. Fourthly, to undertake a fast-track development course in order to eliminate poverty and hunger. And lastly, to get inspired by the eternal values of Islam- peace, moderation and equality.

She asked OIC members to implement its OIC-2025 Program of Action.

Hasina also said that, Muslim identity was mistakenly being equated with that of extremism and violence.

A number of 57 countries, including 52 members of the OIC are participating in the OIC CMF. The 45th session of the CFM will end with a closing session preceded by a brainstorming session focusing on the Humanitarian specially on Rohingyas," on Sunday.

The theme of this year's meeting is "Islamic Values for Sustainable Peace, Solidarity and Development."

This is the second time Bangladesh is hosting the CFM, under a democratic government. It was last conducted in 1983. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI