On October 26, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the importance of Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed’s visit to Azerbaijan following his election as OIC Secretary-General, describing it as a reflection of the strong partnership between Azerbaijan and the OIC. The head of state noted that Azerbaijan had always been an active member of the OIC and emphasized that this commitment would continue in the future. Recalling that numerous political, economic and sporting events had been held in Azerbaijan within the framework of the organization, President Ilham Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan would host the OIC Summit next year and that preparations for the event were already underway.

President Ilham Aliyev also recalled that the Islamic Solidarity Games had been excellently organized in Azerbaijan.

The head of state said that Azerbaijan would continue to spare no effort to contribute to strengthening Islamic solidarity, promoting mutual understanding between religions and cultures, and advancing security and stability.

Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed thanked the President for the reception and for his support for the activities of the OIC. He expressed satisfaction at choosing Azerbaijan as one of his first destinations following his election as Secretary-General. Noting that he had visited Azerbaijan several times previously, the OIC Secretary-General highlighted the development he had witnessed in the country and extended his congratulations on its achievements.

Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed stated that, as OIC Secretary-General, he would step up efforts to work with Azerbaijan to further strengthen the organization’s international influence and promote Islamic solidarity.

Expressing his respect for the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, the Secretary-General recalled the National Leader’s contributions to expanding relations between Azerbaijan and the OIC. He also highlighted Azerbaijan’s vital role in the Islamic world and in strengthening Islamic solidarity.

Noting that Azerbaijan had fully restored its sovereignty and territorial integrity, Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed congratulated the head of state on the upcoming Victory Day. He also expressed support for the Azerbaijani President’s efforts to establish peace in the region.

During the meeting, the sides discussed media cooperation within the framework of the OIC, stressed the importance of joint efforts by member states to combat disinformation, and exchanged views on projects to be implemented during Azerbaijan’s chairmanship.