Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), took part in the opening ceremony of the 2nd International Maqom Art Forum in the esteemed presence of His Excellency Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The forum, organized by the Uzbek Ministry of Culture in Zaamin between June 27-30, 2024, features a high-level attendance of 400 participants from around 80 countries.
In his address during the opening ceremony, held on Thursday, June 27, 2024, His Excellency Shavkat Mirziyoyev welcomed the Forum’s guests, underscoring Uzbekis tan’s pride in its cultural heritage, its efforts to preserve and enhance it and its openness to collaboration with international organizations to achieve this goal.
In his remarks, Dr. AlMalik expressed his delight in participating in the forum, highlighting the values that shape the identity, history, and geography of Uzbekistan. These values embody pride, generosity, peace, justice, unity, and national cohesion, reflecting the ambitions and sacrifices of a population that has mastered the art of achieving its dreams and establishing its distinguished stature among rising nations.
Moreover, Dr. AlMalik praised President Mirziyoyev’s leadership, which champions the fields of thought, science, and wisdom, and commended His Excellency’s focus on cultural advancement and the enhancement of Islamic civilization, as well as the organization of the Maqom Art Forum. Dr. AlMalik emphasized the honor bestowed upon ICESCO when President Mirziyoyev acknowledged that the Organization is “on the right path, drawing closer to kinship ties and the unifying civilization of our Islamic world.”
Dr. AlMalik also highlighted Uzbekistan’s contribution to the Islamic and human civilization, mentioning notable figures such as Imam Al-Bukhari, renowned for his significant contributions to Hadith sciences; Al-Khwarizmi, the discoverer of algorithms; Ibn Sina, the founder of modern medical science; Al-Biruni, who established the first school of astronomy; and Al-Farabi, whose book, the Virtuous City, is celebrated.
Dr. AlMalik concluded his speech by reaffirming ICESCO’s commitment to deepening its cooperation with all Uzbek institutions in education, culture, and science to preserve heritage and mobilize universities and research centers for a better future.
Following, the musical performances commenced, showcasing traditional dances and songs that introduced attendees to Uzbekistan’s unique cultural heritage.
The International Forum “By Youth For Youth,” organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan and Heydar Aliyev Foundation, concluded its proceedings on Wednesday, 26 June 2024. The Forum witnessed high-level attendance of ministers, officials, representatives of Azerbaijani institutions and bodies, and public figures and saw the participation of 90 young people representing 43 countries inside the Islamic world and beyond.
During the closing ceremony, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General (DG), praised the success of the first edition of the Forum, offered guidance to the youth on leadership, and called on them to participate in building a sustainable and bright future for the world.
Speaking next, Ms. Indira Hajiyeva, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan, commended the close cooperation between Azerbaijan and ICESCO, which culminated in organizing the Forum over four days in Shusha and Baku.
For her part, Ms. Sanaa Rida, representative of the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication of the Kingdom of Morocco, reviewed the joint activities held by the youth sector at the Ministry in cooperation with ICESCO. Moreover, Mr. Théodore Adrien Ndiaye, representative of the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Senegal, praised the Forum’s sessions and topics.
In his remarks, Mamoudou Sall, Assistant DG of the Islamic Centre for Development of Trade (ICDT), lauded the collaboration with ICESCO, particularly in entrepreneurship through the organization of “Innovation Lab for Young Change-Makers,” and affirmed ICDT’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with ICESCO.
Following, three winners were announced among the participants who had proposed innovative projects to promote entrepreneurship, peace-building and climate change mitigation.
In conclusion, Ms. Zarifa Maharramova, ICESCO Ambassador for Peace and Head of the International Relations Department at the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, read the Forum’s final declaration entitled, “Shusha-Baku Youth Action Plan for a Sustainable Future in the Islamic World,” which included a set of recommendations for developing sustainable public policies in peace, well-being, climate change, and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), held a series of meetings with several ministers of youth and sports who attended the launch of the international forum “By Youth for Youth,” organized by ICESCO in cooperation with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, in Shusha and Baku.
The meetings, which took place on Wednesday, 26 June, 2024, in Baku, included discussions with Mr. Peter Ogwang, State Minister for Education and Sports of the Republic of Uganda; Mr. Abakar Djermah Aumi, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Chad; Mr. Bakary Y. Badjie, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of The Gambia; and Dr. Donuma Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The discussions focused on developing cooperation between ICESCO and the countries represented by each Minister in leveraging sports to build youth capacities and prepare them for future professions.
Dr. AlMalik emphasized the importance of sports in promoting culture, building peace, and fostering values of coexistence and intercultural dialogue. He further stressed that ICESCO encourages its Member States to invest in sports activities, considering them a catalyst for social inclusion and for building healthy, resilient, and inclusive communities.
The Ministers expressed their pleasure in attending ICESCO’s forum “By Youth for Youth”, as well as their commitment to supporting the Organization’s activities and initiatives in building youth sports capabilities. They praised ICESCO’s efforts in sports and leadership training for peace and security, and called for the possibility of organizing similar activities in their countries in the future.
The International Forum “By Youth For Youth,” organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan and Heydar Aliyev Foundation, kicked off in Shusha on Tuesday, 25 June 2024.
The four-day Forum is part of celebrating Shusha as Culture Capital in the Islamic World and ICESCO’s Year of Youth activities. It aims to provide a platform for young people to express their views, share best practices in peacebuilding, humanitarian work, and sustainable development, and devise concrete ideas to empower youth to lead positive change in their communities.
The Forum witnessed the attendance of high-level officials and representatives from Azerbaijani institutions and bodies, as well as public figures. It includes the participation of 90 young people representing 43 countries from the Islamic world and beyond. The agenda features various panel sessions, intellectual dialogues and cultural and artistic activities.
In his opening speech, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of ICESCO, expressed gratitude to His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, for his diligent efforts to promote civilizational dialogue on peace and sustainable development, as well as to the First Vice President and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva and all Azerbaijani entities for their significant efforts in ensuring the success of this event and their steadfast support in bringing this initiative into being for the Islamic world.
Following, Dr. AlMalik welcomed the young participants in the Forum, particularly ICESCO Peace Ambassadors, noting that the youth population in Islamic countries is projected to reach 29% by 2030. This demographic trend has prompted ICESCO to strongly focus on youth participation as future leaders. Dr. AlMalik pointed out that youth represent 42% of ICESCO’s staff and highlighted the Organization’s key initiatives and programs in collaboration with international partners.
Moreover, Dr. AlMalik emphasized that the Forum serves as a space for youth to build a brighter future by harnessing their potential to address global challenges and transform them into opportunities for peace and development. Dr. AlMalik also underscored the importance of deepening partnerships with the Republic of Azerbaijan.
For his part, Aydin Karimov, the Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Shusha District, welcomed the Forum’s participants, expressing his sincere thanks to the organizing partners for their efforts in making the event successful and commending the participation of ICESCO’s young ambassadors from various countries.
Furthermore, Mr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, highlighted the Forum’s importance as it will feature significant intellectual discussions to develop youth skills and contribute to peacebuilding and sustainable development globally. Mr. Gayibov pointed out that the majority of the Azerbaijani population are youth, necessitating the launch of various initiatives and activities to empower them and discuss innovative solutions to challenges.
Mr. Elvin Aslanov, Head of the Humanitarian Affairs Department at Heydar Aliyev Foundation, welcomed the strategic partnership between ICESCO and the Foundation, noting the importance of organizing this Forum in Shusha as the city reflects the rich and unique history and heritage of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The Forum’s working sessions followed, featuring discussions and dialogues among youth and inspiring leaders from different countries to exchange experiences and ideas.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan. They discussed ways to enhance cooperation between ICESCO and Azerbaijan in leveraging sports to build youth capacities and develop their skills to keep pace with global changes.
The Meeting took place on Tuesday (June 25, 2024), in Shusha, Azerbaijan, on the sidelines of the launch of the international forum “By Youth for Youth,” the fruit of a partnership between ICESCO, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. Dr. AlMalik thanked Mr. Gayibov, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the other Azerbaijani parties for their significant cooperation and efforts made to ensure the Forum’s success.
Dr. AlMalik emphasized that ICESCO’s new vision places youth issues at the heart of its priorities due to their crucial role in achieving sustainable development and advancing their communities. ICESCO commits, in its programs and projects, to utilizing the potential of sports to support community cohesion and improve the lives of individuals in its Member States. Mr. Gayibov expressed his gratitude to ICESCO’s DG and his accompanying delegation for their ongoing efforts to develop the partnership with Azerbaijan. He praised ICESCO’s vision, as it pertains to youth and its notable achievements in its areas of expertise.
The Meeting also discussed proposals for implementing several joint programs and projects between ICESCO and the Azerbaijani Ministry of Youth and Sports, particularly in the context of celebrating Shusha as the 2024 Culture Capital of the Islamic world. Key proposals included organizing a version of ICESCO’s Social Solidarity Marathon in Azerbaijan and launching several cultural and sports initiatives serving the youth of the Islamic world, and beyond.
At the close of the Meeting, the ICESCO DG and the Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sports exchanged commemorative shields.
The Meeting was attended by Ambassador Nazim Samadov, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Morocco, Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of the Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector at ICESCO, and several youth members of the Organization.
The ICESCO Regional Educational Center in its new headquarters in N’Djamena, the capital of the Republic of Chad, has become a favorite destination for high school students. Over the course of three weeks, the Center offers final review services for these students’ academic subjects before their end-of-year exams, led by a selection of the best teachers working with the Center.
The ICESCO Educational Center in N’Djamena has been offering this service since moving to its new headquarters, officially inaugurated on 27 November 2023. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), Mr. Moussa Khaddam, Chadian Minister of National Education and Civic Promotion, a group of senior officials and public figures, a representative from Qatar Charity (which funded the Center’s construction), and a large number of the Center’s alumni.
The review sessions, attended by thousands of male and female students pursuing their education in Arabic schools both inside and outside of N’Djamena, covered subjects including Arabic, mathematics, science, geography, history, and other subjects.
This initiative, implemented by the ICESCO Regional Educational Center in Chad under the supervision of Dr. Mohamed Ali Qamar, Center director, has received widespread acclaim from all segments of Chadian society. It is part of ICESCO’s new vision to support the efforts of its Member States in the fields of education, science, and culture, focusing on building youth capacities and equipping them with the necessary skills to keep pace with global developments.
The activities of the Youth Climate Leadership Training Camp, held by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in partnership with the Climate Reality Project – Indonesia, under the theme “Youth leadership, a solution to the climate crisis”, have kicked off this Wednesday, 12 June 2024 in Bogor, Indonesia, with the participation of 50 young men and women from 18 countries inside and outside the Islamic world, selected among 400 applicants.
The three-day Camp, which marks the start of a series of camps to be organized by ICESCO in several of its Member States, aims to build the capacity of young people to develop and implement innovative projects in climate action, and contribute to shaping a generation of young leaders capable of addressing the climate challenges that threaten the world’s future. The Camp is part of ICESCO’s commitment to strengthening international efforts to tackle climate issues.
Dr. Fahman Fathurrahman, expert at ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector, who represents ICESCO and oversees the Camp, stressed in his speech at the opening session the importance of involving young people in the search for sustainable and innovative solutions to protect the environment and reduce the effects of climate change, by investing in the creative energies of young people. He reviewed ICESCO’s efforts in preserving the environment and combating food waste, through the use of modern technology, including a competition to develop the transformation of organic waste into food bars, as well as programs to promote smart agriculture and the transition to flexible, smart and sustainable cities.
The opening session of the Camp was attended by a number of officials from the Ministry of the Environment of the Republic of Indonesia and experts in the environment, climate change and technology, who all hailed the importance of the Camp.
The remarkable successes and achievements of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), and the development and modernization it has undergone in the past five years under its new foresighted vision, were highly praised by speakers, including intellectuals and experts, at the seminar “ICESCO and the issue of Evolution and Reform.” The Event was organized by the Abdallah Guennoun Foundation for Culture and Scientific Research and the International Civil Society Organization for Values of Citizenship, Development, and Dialogue in Tangier, Morocco, to honor Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO.
The Seminar kicked off today, Saturday 8 June 2024, in the lecture hall of Tangier’s Council of Ulema, with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran. This was followed by an address from Dr. Mohammed Guennoun, President of the Abdallah Guennoun Foundation for Culture and Scientific Research, who emphasized that honoring ICESCO and its Director-General is an anchoring of the value of justice and Islamic principles by recognizing and rewarding diligent and sincere work, thereby encouraging further contributions.
Dr. Mustapha Zebakh, President of the International Civil Society Organization for Values of Citizenship, Development, and Dialogue, stated in his speech that ICESCO, under the leadership of Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, is currently experiencing a phase of development and reform. He noted that it is challenging to summarize the Organization’s accomplishments, which the seminar aimed to provide an evaluative and appreciative reading of.
Dr. AlMalik began his address by expressing his gratitude for the initiative by the Abdallah Guennoun Foundation and the Civil Society Organization to honor ICESCO and its Director-General. He noted that this recognition of the Organization’s work is a prized accolade, enhanced by the distinguished attendance at the seminar in radiant and influential Tangier.
His Excellency explained that the moment of honoring ICESCO and its Director-General is a moment to reflect on every great challenge, sharpening the motivation of all ICESCO staff to continue their dedication and hard work. He concluded his address by reciting the poem “Glorious Tangier,” which he composed in admiration of the Moroccan “Bride of the North.”
Mr. Hani Mansi, Advisor to the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, expressed his great pride in the partnership between ICESCO and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Ambassador Azzedine Saeed Al-Asbahi, Ambassador of Yemen to Morocco, began the praise and testimonials by noting that ICESCO’s modernization and development experience in recent years warrants reflection. He mentioned that ICESCO has undergone significant changes in its vision and legislative structure, including organizational and operational updates.
Dr. Khalid Samadi, President of the Moroccan Center for Educational Studies and Research, summarized his testimony on ICESCO’s new era under Dr. AlMalik’s leadership in several points, including the Organization’s ability to communicate, its openness, and its commitment to building bridges and embracing various fields to keep up with modern developments and challenges.
Dr. Abdullah Bennaceur Alawi, President of the Moroccan Association for Academic Arab Studies, highlighted in his testimony that ICESCO’s new vision projects its sight towards the future, and Dr. AlMalik’s leadership has propelled the Organization into new horizons.
The Seminar also featured several poetic recitations by Dr. Abdellatif Chehboun, a professor of higher education in Morocco; Dr. Souad Nasser, a professor at Abdelmalek Essaadi University in Tetouan; and Dr. Ahmed Hachim Raissouni, Head of the Department of Literary Studies at the same university.
In his remarks, Ambassador Khalid Fathalrahman, Director of ICESCO’s Center for Civilizational Dialogue, emphasized that civilizational dialogue shapes ICESCO’s new comprehensive vision, aspiring to be an organization of international civilizational influence. He explained that the idea of establishing a Civilizational Dialogue Center, extending beyond religious dialogue, was Dr. AlMalik’s initiative, ensuring the uniqueness of the Center’s activity.
For his part, Dr. Omar Halli, Advisor to ICESCO’s Director-General for the Federation of the Universities of the Islamic World, noted that the Organization’s new vision aligns with global transformations, providing it with the ability to address new developments in higher education, particularly in medicine, engineering, and future professions.
Dr. Mahjoub Bensaid, a researcher in communication sciences and civilizational dialogue, considered honoring ICESCO’s Director-General as an embodiment of recognition and appreciation, as ICESCO has become a major international organization and a beacon of global cultural influence.
Mr. Rachid El-Bakkali, Director of Cultural and Educational Islamic Affairs at ICSO, stated that ICESCO has made significant efforts to develop e-learning in its Member States.
Mr. Najib Rhiati, former cultural advisor to ICESCO’s Director-General, mentioned that Dr. AlMalik successfully managed the Organization by diagnosing its needs and making it an ambitious entity with boundless aspirations. Mr. Mohamed Salem Echarkaoui, Acting Director of Bayt Mal Al-Quds Agency, praised ICESCO’s development and modernization over the past years.
At the conclusion of the seminar, Dr. Mohammed Guennoun, President of the Abdallah Guennoun Foundation, and Dr. Mustaphaa Zabakh, President of the International Civil Society Organization, presented a commemorative shield and a certificate of appreciation to Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO.
In his closing remarks, Dr. AlMalik thanked the seminar organizers and attendees, emphasizing that ICESCO’s achievements are a continuation of the work of its predecessors. He acknowledged the contributions of the late Dr. Abdelhadi Boutaleb, ICESCO’s first Director-General, and Dr. Abdelaziz Touijri, the Organization’s former Director-General.
The headquarters of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in Rabat hosted a cultural and artistic evening on Friday, June 7, 2024, as part of the “Shusha Days”. The Event was organized by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Morocco, in celebration of Shusha being 2024 Capital of Culture of the Islamic World. The Evening witnessed the high-level attendance of officials, ambassadors, prominent public figures, and a large audience.
The Evening commenced with an address by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of ICESCO, in which he welcomed Shusha, represented by its art, heritage, and enduring legends, into the Organization’s premises. He expressed ICESCO’s pride in its deep relations with Azerbaijan and thanked the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani Embassy in Rabat, and the ICESCO team, particularly those from Azerbaijan, for their significant efforts in organizing the Evening.
Dr. AlMalik highlighted that Shusha exemplifies how supreme human values can endure despite adversaries, stating that the genius artwork is created by those who master the art of marrying color and thought. In this regard, the DG brought focus on the legend of “Khari Bulbul,” a unique and beautiful flower resulting from the fusion of a rose, a thorn, and a singing bulbul (songbird), which Shusha has adopted as its symbol.
In his speech, Mr. Aydin Karimov, the Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Shusha district, thanked ICESCO and its DG for declaring Shusha Culture Capital of the Islamic World. He noted that the celebration program includes many outstanding activities to be implemented throughout the year.
Ambassador Nazim Samadov, the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Morocco, also expressed his gratitude to ICESCO and its Member States for the honor bestowed upon Shusha. He referred to the words of His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev during the launch of the celebration event of Shusha as Culture Capital of the Islamic World on 11 May 2024. He stated that the people of Shusha are honored to receive the title, which represents evidence of the increasing support and respect from the Islamic world towards Azerbaijan.
The Event continued with a video presentation showcasing the most notable landmarks of Shusha, including scenes from the launch ceremony of Shusha as the Culture Capital. Following this, the musical segments of the evening commenced, featuring performances by more than 20 artistic and musical groups from Shusha and Azerbaijan, presenting traditional dances, tunes, and songs that highlight Shusha’s rich cultural heritage. These performances received significant interaction from the audience.
The cultural event at ICESCO headquarters also included a photo exhibition revealing the extent of Azerbaijan’s achievements in reconstructing and rebuilding the beautiful city of Shusha, as well as a display of the most famous and delicious dishes of Azerbaijani cuisine.
Dr Salim M. AlMalik, Directeur général de l’Organisation du Monde Islamique pour l’Éducation, les Sciences et la Culture (ICESCO), a reçu M. Aydin Karimov, Représentant spécial du Président de la République d’Azerbaïdjan dans la région de Choucha, pour examiner les derniers développements du programme de célébration de Choucha capitale de la culture dans le monde islamique pour 2024, suite au grand succès de la cérémonie de lancement, tenue sous le patronage de S.E. le Président Ilham Aliyev, Président de la République d’Azerbaïdjan.
Au cours de la réunion, tenue vendredi 7 juin 2024 au siège de l’ICESCO à Rabat, en présence de M. Nazim Samadov, Ambassadeur de l’Azerbaïdjan au Maroc, et la délégation accompagnant M. Karimov, Dr AlMalik a réitéré ses remerciements et sa gratitude au Président azerbaïdjanais, pour son généreux patronage de ladite célébration et pour son soutien constant à l’ICESCO. Il a également remercié Mme Mehriban Aliyeva, Première vice-présidente, première dame de la République, et toutes les autorités azerbaïdjanaises, qui ont déployé des efforts considérables pour assurer le succès du programme de célébration, prévoyant des activités culturelles et artistiques tout au long de l’année à Choucha et dans nombre de villes du pays et d’ailleurs.
Le Directeur général a souligné la volonté de l’Organisation d’approfondir le partenariat privilégié avec l’Azerbaïdjan, notant que la tenue d’une journée des « Journées de Choucha » au siège de l’ICESCO à Rabat incarne l’un des objectifs les plus importants du programme de l’ICESCO visant à célébrer les capitales de la culture, à savoir présenter le patrimoine culturel de ces villes pour enrichir le dialogue civilisationnel.
Pour sa part, le Représentant spécial du Président de l’Azerbaïdjan dans la région de Choucha a exprimé ses remerciements à l’ICESCO et à son directeur général pour avoir déclaré Choucha capitale de la culture dans le monde islamique, louant le rôle de l’Organisation dans la promotion des efforts des États membres dans ses domaines de compétence. La réunion a examiné les principales activités mises en œuvre à ce jour dans le cadre de la célébration de Choucha, ainsi que les activités prévues dans le futur. Les deux parties ont par ailleurs confirmé leur volonté de poursuivre la coordination et la coopération pour promouvoir le succès de ladite célébration.
Ont représenté l’ICESCO à la réunion, Dr Abdelilah Benarafa, Directeur général adjoint de l’ICESCO, Dr Mohamed Zinelabidine, Chef du Secteur de la Culture et de la Communication et M. Anar Karimov, Chef du Secteur des Partenariats et de la Coopération internationale.
À l’issue de cette réunion, le Directeur général a accompagné le Représentant spécial du Président de l’Azerbaïdjan à Choucha, et à la délégation l’accompagnant, dans une visite à l’exposition et au musée de la Sîrah du Prophète de la civilisation islamique, actuellement hébergés au siège de l’ICESCO.
