OIC Press Release

The Secretary General of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) has been following with deep concern the recent developments that have taken place over the Moroccan Island of Leila. He stated that his concern is motivated by the principles of Islamic solidarity and the protection of the security, sovereignty, independence, and national rights of Islamic States as enshrined in the Charter and expressed in the resolutions of the Organisation. He stressed that the position of the Organisation is based on giving priority to defusing tension, reinforcing international peace and security, and resolving all outstanding issues through dialogue, negotiations and peaceful means.

The Secretary General expressed his surprise at the Spanish Government’s display of force and unjustified threats directed at an OIC Member State. He also expressed his surprise at the hasty position of the European Union on this issue before examining the full facts of the situation.

He considered this position in contradiction with the true objectives of the Moroccan measures in the Island aimed at combating drug-trafficking, international terrorism, and clandestine emigration, which are all part of the priorities of the European Union.

The Secretary General expressed the solidarity of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference with the Kingdom of Morocco in its efforts to defend its rights and sovereignty, emphasizing that the Island of Leila constitutes a part of the territory of a Muslim State Member of the Organisation and bears no relation to the territories of the European Union.