–FM Qureshi expresses concerns over ‘misrepresentation of Islam’ in West
UNITED NATIONS: The Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) has denounced the “misrepresentation of Islam” in the West and called for an end Islamophobia in its moot of foreign ministers on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.
Speaking on the occasion, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed deep concern over the misrepresentation of Islam as well as at the activities that hurt the feelings of Muslims all over the world, especially the disrespect shown to the most revered personality of Islam—Prophet Muhammad.
In the statement, which was approved by the ministerial meeting, serious concern was expressed on the intensification of hate campaigns which were deliberately targeting Muslims and the religious symbols.
The joint statement rejected provocative acts like the holding of the competition contest to ridicule Islam aimed at inciting violence.
Ever since caricatures competition was announced, Pakistan raised the issue at the diplomatic level with the United Nations, the OIC, and European Union and sensitised world leaders, according to an official statement.
The statement takes notes of the important resolutions adopted by the OIC, the UN Human Rights Council and the UNGA condemning attacks on Islam, combating intolerance, negative stereotyping and stigmatisation and discrimination, incitement to violence against persons based on religion and belief.
In particular, the statement points to various steps proposed by the OIC to foster an environment of peace, religious tolerance and respect as well as measures to be taken by the states in their domestic sphere.
The statement is said to be in line with the government’s commitment to play its role in garnering support through OIC’s joint action and building solidarity and unity among Muslim countries and to stand united for the common cause of upholding the values of Islam and engaging with other countries to promote a culture of peace and tolerance.
