India’s MEA Critiques Pakistan’s Longstanding Misuse of the OIC

The Indian MEA has denounced Pakistan for its habitual misuse of the OIC. Misri criticized these actions as ‘shenanigans’ and affirmed the importance of addressing such concerns with OIC partners. The statement precedes Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the growing partnership between India and Saudi Arabia.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has criticized Pakistan for its continuous misuse of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), labeling it a long-standing habit of the nation. Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Misri articulated, “On Pakistan’s misuse of the OIC – it’s a habit of long standing, one that we have regularly spoken out against and also raised with our friends and partners in the OIC.” He deemed Pakistan’s actions as “shenanigans,” emphasizing that such practices are viewed with concern by other OIC member states.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which claims to be the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations, consists of 57 member countries across four continents. It aims to safeguard Muslim interests and promote global peace and harmony. Misri’s comments were made in anticipation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Saudi Arabia, scheduled for April 22 and 23, following an invitation from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

This upcoming visit is significant as it marks Prime Minister Modi’s first trip to Saudi Arabia during his current term and follows his previous visits in 2016 and 2019. It also comes on the heels of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s State Visit to India in September 2023, during which he co-chaired the inaugural meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council with Prime Minister Modi. Misri noted that the forthcoming visit reflects the strengthening relationship between India and Saudi Arabia.

The MEA’s condemnation of Pakistan’s misuse of the OIC illustrates a continuing diplomatic tension. As Prime Minister Modi prepares for his visit to Saudi Arabia, the strengthening of India-Saudi Arabia ties is evident, underscoring the importance of this relationship. The context of Misri’s comments further highlights the broader geopolitical dynamics at play within the OIC.

Original Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com