OIC Contact Group Convenes on Kashmir Crisis

The Contact Group of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Jammu and Kashmir convened during the 15th Islamic Summit in Banjul, The Gambia, on 5 May 2024. The meeting focused on the political and security situation in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) region, shedding light on the severe human rights violations occurring there.

Chaired by the Assistant Secretary General (Political Affairs) of the OIC, the gathering was attended by member states such as Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Niger, and Azerbaijan. Representatives from the Kashmiri People and officials from the OIC-Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission were also in attendance.

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister presented a detailed account of India's actions in Kashmir, accusing India of infringing upon the fundamental rights of Kashmiris and fostering an environment of fear and oppression. He called upon the global community to address India's aggressive rhetoric and behavior in the region, stressing the importance of releasing political prisoners, removing restrictions on political parties, and complying with relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

Delegations from member states reiterated the significance of the Jammu and Kashmir conflict on the OIC's agenda and voiced their unwavering support for the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination as outlined in UN Security Council resolutions. The Contact Group issued a collective appeal for an expeditious and peaceful resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical need for international attention and action to address the ongoing crisis in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the imperative of upholding human rights and promoting a peaceful resolution to the conflict.