OIC: Cambodia is a Model of Peaceful Coexistence in the World
08/05/2019- The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) took part in the annual Ramadan Iftar banquet hosted by Prime Minister Hun Sen of the Kingdom of Cambodia, on 7 May 2019, at Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Centre in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
This annual event, OIC Secretary General Dr Yousef Al-Othaimeen said, gives true expression to Cambodia’s longstanding respect for the values of cultural diversity, multiculturalism and tolerance, and a concrete representation of the high esteem in which the Cambodian government holds the Muslim community.
In a statement read out on his behalf by OIC Arab Group Director Ms Nouria Al-Hamami, the Secretary General said “One of the elements that distinguish Cambodia is the government’s dedication to peaceful coexistence and synergy between all members of the Cambodian society.”
The OIC is looking forward to furthering relations with the Kingdom of Cambodia to usher into wider prospects for both sides, Secretary General Dr Al-Othaimeen said, reaffirming the Organization’s commitment to strengthening ties with Cambodia. He also expressed gratitude to Cambodia’s leadership, including Prime Minister Hun Sen, for hosting this annual event.
Speaking before an audience of some 4 500 persons coming from all around the country, PM Hun Sen stressed that differences of race and religion cannot obstruct cooperation and development. He added, “This is a core principle that has guided the Cambodian People Party’s thinking over 40 years,” expressing hope for all-inclusive efforts to preserve the national unity and harmony of races and religions in Cambodia.
He also commended the existing cooperation between Cambodia and the OIC, reaffirming his country’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Organization and welcoming its participation, as the collective voice of the Muslim world, in this annual celebration.
The OIC delegation offered copies of the Holy Quran and dates as gifts to fasters during the said ceremony. They also visited mosques and schools for Muslims, and inspected a number of Muslim districts in the Cambodian capital. For the record, Cambodia has some 800,000 Muslims in a population of 16 million.
Source: https://www.oic-oci.org/topic/?t_id=20886&t_ref=11814&lan=en