Jeddah – The Islamic Solidarity Sports Federation (ISSF) has received commendations from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its innovative initiatives and outstanding efforts in promoting unity, harmony, and friendship among member states. The Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian, Cultural, and Social Affairs, Ambassador Tarig Ali Bakheet, voiced his appreciation during the 12th session of the ISSF’s Executive Committee and General Assembly meeting held in Riyadh on November 27th, 2023.
The session, presided over by His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki Al-Faisal Bin Abdulaziz, President of the ISSF and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sport, was hailed for its significant accomplishments in sports development within the Muslim world. Ambassador Bakheet expressed the General Secretariat’s commitment to strengthening coordination with the ISSF, particularly through the Department of Youth and Sport, to achieve the goals outlined in the OIC Plan of Action for the Development of Sports and the OIC Youth Strategy. These initiatives aim to elevate youth issues, with a special focus on sports, in the Muslim world.
Furthermore, Ambassador Bakheet applauded the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its dedicated efforts in youth and sports development. He recognized the generous attention and support provided by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman towards the welfare of youth and the advancement of sporting activities. The Ministry of Sport’s commitment to implementing the resolutions of the 5th session of the Islamic Conference of Youth and Sports Ministers, held in September 2022, was also acknowledged.
Addressing the dire humanitarian situation experienced by the Palestinian people, Ambassador Bakheet expressed concern over the violent acts committed by Israeli occupation authorities. He highlighted the killing of innocent children, women, and young individuals, along with the destruction of health, cultural, and sports infrastructure in Palestine.
The OIC’s recognition of the ISSF’s creative initiatives and exceptional efforts in fostering unity, harmony, and friendship among member states underscores the importance of sports in promoting solidarity within the Muslim world. The commitment to youth development and the collaboration between the OIC and ISSF signifies a crucial step towards achieving common goals and addressing challenges faced by the Muslim youth community.
The commendations received by the ISSF during the General Assembly meeting reaffirm the organization’s commitment to sports-based initiatives that not only promote unity and harmony but also contribute to the overall development and well-being of youth in member states. The ongoing partnership between the OIC and ISSF showcases their dedication to enhancing youth issues in the Muslim world and cultivating a positive environment for sports and cultural exchange. As we move forward, it is imperative to build upon these achievements and utilize the power of sports to strengthen the Islamic solidarity.
