Dr. Muhammad Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, underlined the importance of women in Islam, and their role in national societies and the international community.
Al-Issa's remarks came while addressing an international forum hosted by Saudi Arabia, under the title of, “Strengthening Friendship and Cooperation between Nations and Peoples.” The forum was held with the participation of former Croatian President and global peace activist Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic.
“Continuing efforts to strengthen friendship and cooperation among nations and peoples is an urgent necessity for the peace of our world and the harmony of its diverse national societies,” Al-Issa said.
He noted that women have been marginalized throughout history, which has deprived societies of their skills and competencies. Their successes and influence, he added, have been demonstrated at various levels.
For her part, Grabar-Kitarovic praised “the changes taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with regard to women and their effective role in society, as well as combating intolerance and extremism in general.”
“I am delighted to witness these historic changes here in person in Riyadh, and I would like to congratulate you for your contribution, efforts and dedication to engaging women,” she said, highlighting the positive changes taking place in the Kingdom.
She continued: “I must say that when I came to the Kingdom two days ago, I came with a little misunderstanding, as my knowledge was based on what I read in the international media; so I was not aware of the changes that have occurred in Saudi Arabia in the past years, and here I really appreciate what has been achieved.”
Grabar-Kitarovic noted that the geopolitical changes and recent developments in the world “confirm once again the importance of continuing and strengthening the fruitful dialogue about the status of women in society and the value of their contribution to the political, economic, social and cultural fields, and all other aspects of life.”
