Gambiaj.com – (ISLAMABAD) – The Pakistani Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, is set to visit The Gambia to participate in the 15th session of the Islamic Summit Conference. The conference, themed “Enhancing Unity and Solidarity through Dialogue for Sustainable Development,” will take place in Banjul, the capital city, on May 4-5, 2024. This announcement was made by the Pakistani Foreign Office Spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch.

The timing of the summit is crucial, coinciding with ongoing Israeli atrocities in Gaza. Prime Minister Shehbaz is expected to use the platform to express Pakistan’s deep concerns over the genocide in Gaza. He will advocate for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and emphasize the importance of solidarity among Muslim nations.

In addition to addressing the Gaza crisis, Prime Minister Shehbaz will also discuss other pressing issues faced by the Muslim world, including Islamophobia, terrorism, and global challenges. He is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with other Muslim leaders to strengthen diplomatic ties and discuss mutual concerns.

Prior to the summit, the Council of Foreign Ministers will convene for a preparatory meeting on May 2-3. Pakistani Foreign Minister Dar will attend this meeting and participate in bilateral discussions as well.

“Leaders of the member states will discuss the political issues of the Islamic world, most notably the Palestinian cause, and the economic, humanitarian, social and cultural issues, in addition to the issues of youth, women, family, science and technology, information, Muslim communities and minorities in non-OIC member states, and legal matters,” the OIC said.

The Summit will also tackle issues related to hate speech and Islamophobia, the promotion of dialogue, climate change and food security.

“The 15th session will issue a final communique that includes the OIC positions on the issues submitted to the Summit, a resolution on Palestine and Al-Quds Al-Sharif, and the Banjul Declaration,” the OIC added.

The Islamic Summit is a principal organ of the OIC focused on the formulation, development, and implementation of decisions made by 57 member states. The Summit is attended by concerned heads of state such as prime ministers, presidents, emirs and other equivalent heads.

The summit in Banjul is expected to be a pivotal moment for Muslim nations to come together and address the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza, reaffirming their commitment to solidarity and unity within the Islamic world.