ICESCO and the Geneva Islamic Cultural Foundation Explore Prospects for Cooperation in Education, Culture, and Dialogue
9 September 2026
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Dr. Maan Al Hafiz, General Supervisor of the Geneva Islamic Cultural Foundation and representative of the Muslim World League to the United Nations in Geneva, to discuss prospects for cooperation between the two sides and ways to build an institutional partnership that serves issues of mutual interest.
The meeting, held on Monday, 7 September 2026, reviewed proposed areas of cooperation, particularly in education, culture, intercultural dialogue, and peacebuilding, as well as the exchange of expertise, participation in seminars, forums, and programs, and the launch of joint initiatives that promote coexistence and mutual understanding and address current challenges.
Dr. AlMalik affirmed ICESCO’s willingness to support the Geneva Islamic Cultural Foundation with its expertise and capabilities, and provide access to the Organization’s experts and competencies, as well as to exchange experiences and best practices, contributing to expanding the impact of joint programs and initiatives.
He noted that Geneva’s position as a hub for international organizations and institutions offers promising opportunities to develop high-quality initiatives with an international dimension and promote the values of dialogue and peace.
For his part, Dr. Maan Al Hafiz outlined the Foundation’s vision, mission, and objectives, as well as its current programs and projects and future aspirations, emphasizing the importance of drawing on ICESCO’s expertise and standing in the fields of education, culture, and dialogue to develop the Foundation’s programs and expand its impact.
The two officials agreed on the importance of establishing cooperation within a sustainable institutional framework and identifying priority areas and programs for the coming phase, in a manner that supports their shared mission and enhances the effectiveness of their initiatives.
At the close of the meeting, Dr. Maan Al Hafiz expressed his appreciation for ICESCO’s efforts and initiatives in serving its Member States, as well as its contributions to promoting intercultural dialogue and fostering a culture of peace, openness, and communication among peoples and cultures.
