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Wednesday 03 Feb 2016 - 23:53 Makkah mean time-24-4-1437
OIC chief Iyad Madani
Canberra (IINA) – Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Iyad Ameen Madani stressed the importance of multiculturalism in countering the discourse of intolerance and violence. He made the remarks during his meetings with high ranking government officials in Australia.
The Secretary General met here on Wednesday with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who stated that Australia is absolutely committed to maintaining multiculturalism and it has proven its success in that matter.
Madani underlined that the OIC attaches great importance to its relations with Australia, which is considered as a good example of implementing multiculturalism. He said the Organization is looking forward to working with Australia in various fields including capacity building and humanitarian aid as well as addressing regional issues of mutual concern.
The Secretary General also met with Minister for Justice Michael Keenan, who is also the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Counter-Terrorism. They exchanged views on ways to counter extremism and terrorist groups such as Daesh.
Madani stated that security and military measures are not enough to fight terrorism, affirming the need to look into the economic, social and cultural aspects, besides making effort to building institutions, establishing development projects and giving hope to the youth.
The Secretary General highlighted these points in his meeting with Attorney-General for Australia George Brandis, who underlined the need for understanding Islam, its true tenets and diversity in order to challenge the extremists on both sides.
Madani also met with Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, who explained that Australia's multiculturalism is based on the principle of mutual respect that has been nurtured through various measures. During his meeting with Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia Peter Cosgrove, they discussed social cohesion and regional issues.
During the reception held in honor of the Secretary General in Canberra by Indonesian Ambassador Nadjib Riphat Kesoema, who is also the Chairman of the OIC Heads of Mission Group in Australia, Madani exchanged views with the ambassadors and heads of missions on various issues concerning Muslim communities in Australia.
Earlier in Melbourne in his meeting with Victorian Minister for Multicultural Affairs Robin Scott, the OIC chief extolled Australia’s belief and support of multiculturalism. In turn, Scott noted that Australia is interested in cultural exchange, helping young people integrate into the society and work with partners in this field. In order to counter extremist rhetoric, both sides agreed upon the need for an alternative narrative and a better understanding of using narrative in the recruitment process.
While in Melbourne, the Secretary General paid a visit to the Islamic Museum of Australia (IMA), where he was briefed by IMA Director Ahmed Fahour on the important role of the Museum in creating harmony among Muslims and their integration into the wider society as well as its significant role in educating the public on Islam and its civilization and the history of Muslims in Australia.
For his part, the Secretary General praised the IMA's achievements, saying: “As Muslims, we should admit our diversity and that Islam is good for all times and places". He also shed light on the importance of arts, literature and music in bridging knowledge gaps and bringing communities closer and helping them understand each other.
AB/IINA
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