President Jokowi Hosts OIC Secretary-General at Merdeka Palace

President Jokowi receives Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Hissein Brahim Taha at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Monday (08/07). (Photo by: BPMI Presidential Secretariat)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo Monday (08/07) received Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Hissein Brahim Taha at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, to discuss four issues.

“First, on Qur’an burnings in Europe. President Jokowi and the OIC Secretary-General reiterated their position to strongly condemn the burning of the holy Qur’an. The President expressed hope that the OIC must continue to fight to prevent or reduce and eradicate Islamophobia, which is currently happening,” Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno L.P. Marsudi said in her statement after accompanying the President.

Second, President Jokowi and the OIC Secretary-General also discussed on Afghanistan issues, especially those related to education access for women. Retno further said that the OIC Secretary-General expressed appreciation to Indonesia which consistently voiced and assisted education access for women in Afghanistan.

“In addition, the OIC also expressed appreciation for the participation of Indonesian ulemas for their participation in the visit of OIC ulemas to Afghanistan and soon there will be also the second visit to Afghanistan in which Indonesian ulemas will also participate,” she added.

Third, discussion, Retno continued, on Palestinian issue. The Minister said that the OIC also expressed appreciation for Indonesia’s position in defending the interests of the Palestinian cause.

Fourth, President Jokowi and the OIC Secretary-General discussed Rohingya issue. According to the Minister, the OIC once again expressed appreciation for what Indonesia has done for Rohingya people in the Cox’s Bazar refugee complex in Bangladesh. Several years ago, President Jokowi visited Cox’s Bazar in person.

“Therefore, the President, with other ASEAN member countries, continues to be committed to voice the interests of the Rohingya in ASEAN meetings,” Retno continued.

According to the Minister, the OIC Secretary-General also expected Indonesia could continue to provide scholarship to African countries, especially the OIC members.

“As of today, Indonesia’s economy is in excellent condition and it continues to grow. So far Indonesia has been very active, not only in the OIC, but in various world issues,” Retno remarked. (BPMI Presidential Secretariat/UN) (GWH/MUR)