No direct mention of Rohingya in OIC declaration

The just-concluded summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation or OIC has not directly mentioned the Rohingya issue.

But the 'Makkah Al Mukarramah Declaration' in its 10th clause 'underscored the importance of standing by those Muslims in non-Islamic countries who suffer persecution, injustice, coercion and aggression'.

Bangladesh was expecting 'tougher texts incorporating the words 'Rohingya' and 'Myanmar' in the declaration but ultimately got a lighter one.

The 10th clause of the declaration also has not mentioned the case of the Rohingya.

It said the OIC is 'extending full support to them and adopting their causes in international forums to ensure the realisation of their political and social rights in their countries'.

The OIC will also develop programmes and mechanisms that would guarantee their integration in their societies without any discrimination.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, however, as expected was highly vocal on the Rohingya issue in the conference.

In her speech, she called upon the Islamic countries to push the case of atrocities committed against the Rohingya to the international court.

The summit was held on May 31 in Makkah city.

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