Statement by President Joko Widodo at Joint Press Conference with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Secretary General of the OIC Iyad Ameen Madani after the Closing of the 5th Extraordinary Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Summit at Jakarta Convention Center, Jakarta, 7 March 2016
Unofficial English Translation
Bismillahirahmanirrahim,
Today I have chaired the Extraordinary OIC Summit on Palestine and Al-Quds Al-Sharif as a response from Indonesia to Palestines request. The topic of Palestine and Al-Quds Al-Sharif is very important to Indonesia because this Summit is a reflection of Indonesias commitment to support the independence of Palestine. Palestine is the only participant of the 1955 Asian-African Conference that has not yet gained independence.
This 5th Extraordinary OIC Summit is a joint effort to place Palestines issues on the world radar, to recall the importance of the unity of Palestine, to unite OIC member countries to continuously support Palestine, to encourage the role of Islamic countries to resolve the issue of Palestine, as well as to reinforce capacities for Palestine.
Palestines independence had been declared in 1998. However, Palestine is not yet a member of the United Nations and its territories are still under Israeli occupation. At the same time, the situation remains alarming, such as the tension in Palestine and Al Quds Al Sharif, acts of violence and human rights violation experienced by Palestinian people, as well as restrictions on Palestinian entry to the Al Aqsa Mosque.
Today, the Leaders of the Islamic world have made an agreement and concrete action plan for Palestine. OIC member countries condemn Israels actions. We call for an end to Israeli occupation of Palestine and support the independence of Palestine on the basis of a two-state solution.
The Leaders also provide support for the international peace conference. The Islamic world encourages the international community to boycott Israeli products. All countries reiterate their commitment to protect Al-Quds Al-Sharif, among others, in providing financial support for Al-Quds Fund.
OIC member countries also support Palestinian reconciliation. The agreements are included in two documents. First, the Jakarta Declaration, initiated by Indonesia, contains concrete steps of the Leaders of Islamic world. Second, a resolution that reaffirms the commitments of the OIC to support Palestine and Al Quds Al-Sharif.
This Summit was attended by 605 delegates from 55 countries and 2 international organizations.
Thank you. (HumasSetkab) (AW/YM/Naster)