The General Conference of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) unanimously approved the re-election of Dr. Salim M. AlMalik as Director-General of the Organization for a new term, following Dr. AlMalik’s nomination by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, during the 15th session of the General Conference, which kicked off on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, in Kazan, in the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation.

In this context, the ICESCO General Conference approved a proposal submitted by the Arab Republic of Egypt to add two years to Dr. AlMalik’s first mandate, in compensation for the exceptional circumstances imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and its repercussions on the Organization’s strategic plans, and in recognition of the significant progress achieved by ICESCO at both the international and regional levels.

In his address following the election, Dr. AlMalik expressed his deep appreciation and gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, may Allah protect him, and to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, for the honor of his nomination. He noted that this nomination reflects the Kingdom’s approach to strengthening inspiring leadership, mobilizing human capacities, and advancing Saudi leaders to assume positions of leadership in international organizations, thereby reaffirming the Kingdom’s advanced role in building a future founded on peace, security, and prosperity.

Dr. AlMalik affirmed that ICESCO, as the civilizational voice of the Islamic world, stands ready to move forward with its Member States to translate civilizational enlightenment into reality, particularly as a historic opportunity opens for the Islamic world to advance boldly in shaping a new era. He emphasized that the region possesses the material and human capacities that qualify it to achieve its aspirations.

It is worth noting that ICESCO has, in recent years, undergone comprehensive development and extensive modernization across its sectors, departments, and centers, in line with innovative action plans and a strategic vision aimed at developing and implementing pioneering initiatives, programs, and projects in the fields of education, science, technology, culture, and communication. This has been accompanied by openness to broad partnership horizons that have positioned the Organization at the forefront of advanced, high-performing, and distinguished regional organizations.