The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) sent two Assistants to the Secretary-General to visit New Zealand and attend a national memorial service for the victims of the terrorist attack in Christchurch.
Earlier this month, an Australian white supremacist attacked two mosques in Christchurch and shot dead 50 Muslims and injured dozens others.
OIC Secretary-General Yousef al-Othaimeen stressed in a press statement on Wednesday that the Secretariat supports the peaceful coexistence between the Muslims and different communities in which they reside.
Othaimeen noted that the delegation’s visit will be useful and will give a clear message of solidarity with Muslims in New Zealand and with the people of New Zealand who were horrified by the attack.
The Sec-Gen reiterated the Organization’s condemnation of terrorism wherever it may exist.
OIC rejects all actions and rhetoric calling for terrorism and inciting hatred and violence against Muslims and other beliefs, stated Othaimeen, adding that terrorism is a major issue that the world must deal with.
The Sec-Gen pointed out that terrorism “has no religion or nationality”.
Earlier, Othaimeen met with New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters on the sidelines of the OIC Executive Committee meeting. He expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and the New Zealand government.
The Sec-Gen praised the government's rapid response to the situation and commended the serious and strong steps taken by the New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, including the new gun laws and holding the social media the responsibility for the dissemination of hate speech and racial incitement.
Othaimeen also lauded the role of OIC Member States in their response and interaction to the attack. He thanked Saudi Arabia, the headquarters country, and its leadership for the firm stance towards this heinous terrorist act.
