Discrimination a stumbling block to development

Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali at the 41st session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Council of Foreign Ministers in Saudia Arabia

– Ali tells OIC Council of Foreign Ministers conference

Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali said Guyana unequivocally condemns discrimination, xenophobia, and Islamophobia and acknowledges international peace and security as pillars for sustainable development.

The Minister made the declaration at the 41st session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Council of Foreign Ministers held in Saudia Arabia on June 18-19.

Affirming Guyana’s commitment to the organisation, Minister Ali conveyed Guyana’s concern over the present situation where peace, unity and stability in the Middle Eastern region are under threat.

He urged those present to reaffirm the values upon which the OIC was formed and called for more dialogue, trust, cooperation and sharing of ideas, as this, he said, is the only approach that will ensure partnerships are built.

“I am most pleased that the agenda will address in a frontal manner, the issues of discrimination, xenophobia, and Islamophobia. The question of Syria and Palestine cannot escape our consideration and thoughts as it is indeed a testing time of our commitment to one Ummah (community),” he stated.