Istanbul (Dawan Africa) — Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalaam Abdullaahi Ali, has attended the opening of the 51st session of the Foreign Ministers Council (CFM) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul, Turkey. The session, which will run from June 21 to 22, 2025, offers Somalia a significant platform for engaging in international cooperation with Muslim-majority countries.
A Timely Gathering in a Changing World
The theme of this year’s session, "The OIC in a Changing World," highlights the dynamic shifts in global politics, particularly within the Muslim world. The event has attracted 1,000 participants, including 43 foreign ministers and five deputy ministers from OIC member countries. The session is set to be one of the largest in the OIC’s history, underscoring the organization’s growing influence in international affairs.
The Foreign Ministers Council (CFM) is the highest decision-making body of the OIC, and its members meet annually to address critical issues. Special meetings are also held to tackle urgent matters. Hosted by Turkey, this year’s gathering has garnered significant attention due to the high-level participation and the OIC’s evolving role on the global stage.
Focus on Regional Stability and Global Cooperation
Minister Abdisalaam, alongside other OIC representatives, is actively participating in discussions on a wide array of issues affecting the Muslim world. Topics include political developments, economic cooperation, and security concerns, with particular emphasis on regional stability. One of the key issues on the agenda is the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, a matter of great concern for the broader Middle Eastern and Muslim communities.
In addition to the general sessions, Minister Abdisalaam is scheduled to hold private meetings with fellow foreign ministers from member states. These meetings aim to bolster Somalia's diplomatic ties with other Muslim countries, strengthen political mediation, and promote deeper cooperation within the OIC framework.
Somalia’s Role in Global Diplomacy
This session of the OIC Foreign Ministers Council holds added significance for Somalia, which, as a member of both the Arab League and the OIC, is currently serving a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. The participation of Somalia’s Foreign Minister in this high-profile event is an important step in advancing the country’s foreign policy goals and enhancing its international standing.
The meetings and discussions taking place in Istanbul will not only address regional challenges but also lay the groundwork for furthering Somalia’s role in global diplomacy, particularly within the Muslim world.
