Leaders Gather for the 15th Islamic Summit in The Gambia
In a significant move, the Turkish Cypriot leader, Ersin Tatar, is set to make his way to the Gambia this Thursday, with the agenda of participating in the highly anticipated 15th Islamic summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The summit, which will unfold over the weekend in Banjul, the capital city of the Gambia, is expected to draw in dignitaries and high-level representatives from the OIC’s 57 member states, as well as its five observers.
The Turkish Cypriot State, represented by Mr. Tatar, holds a unique position as one of the OIC’s five observers. The presence of the Turkish Cypriot leader at this summit is particularly noteworthy as it underscores the ongoing efforts to raise the profile of the Turkish Cypriots on the international stage. According to statements from Tatar’s office, he intends to use this global platform to “request support from the OIC’s member states to end the inhumane policies of isolation implemented by the Greek Cypriot leadership against the Turkish Cypriot people.”
Aside from addressing the general assembly, Tatar is scheduled to engage in a series of bilateral meetings. These sideline discussions are aimed at informing and persuading other international leaders about his demands for “sovereign equality and equal international status” for Turkish Cypriots. This strategy signifies a proactive approach to diplomacy, seeking to build alliances and gather support for their cause.
The summit promises to be a convergence of ideas and cultures, with the overarching goal of fostering unity and cooperation among member states. With pressing issues on the table and a diverse array of leaders in attendance, the outcomes of this summit could have far-reaching implications for the member states and observers alike, including the Turkish Cypriot community.
