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    Category: News

    ICESCO, Qatar Museums Discuss Cooperation on Heritage Preservation and Cultural Protection

    Posted on by abdelmohcine.benhlal

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mr. Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi, CEO of Qatar Museums, and together they explored ways to promote cooperation in the fields of heritage preservation and promotion and the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural properties.

    During the meeting, held on Monday, May 5, 2025, at the headquarters of Qatar Museums in Doha, Dr. AlMalik highlighted ICESCO’s vision, strategic orientations and key programs and initiatives geared towards safeguarding and promoting heritage in the Islamic world. He further explained that ICESCO’s efforts culminated in the creation of the Islamic World Heritage Center and the inscription of 724 sites and elements on the Organization’s heritage lists.

    Dr. AlMalik also praised the strong cooperation between ICESCO and several Qatari institutions, noting that the Organization, in cooperation with the Qatari General Authority of Customs and Qatar National Library, will hold an international conference and workshop on promoting the role of customs in safeguarding cultural properties and countering their illicit trafficking. The event will be held at ICESCO’s headquarters in Rabat next June.

    Likewise, the Director-General praised the regional and international efforts of Qatar Museums to safeguard heritage, promote civilizational dialogue, and highlight the rich and diverse history of the Islamic world.

    For his part, Mr. Al Rumaihi commended ICESCO’s roles in preserving the heritage of the Islamic world, expressing his keenness to build a fruitful partnership with ICESCO in this regard.

    ICESCO and Qatar Explore Prospects to Bolster Cooperation in Green Education

    Posted on by mohamed.elmajdouby

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Ms. Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater, Minister of Education and Higher Education, on Sunday 4 May 2025, to discuss the latest developments in cooperation between ICESCO and the Ministry in the fields of education.

    The meeting, held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Doha in the presence of Mr. Ali Abdul Razzaq Marafie, Secretary-General of the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, explored opportunities for cooperation on innovative programmes under ICESCO’s initiatives in green education and early childhood care.

    During the meeting, Dr. AlMalik outlined the core pillars of ICESCO’s vision and strategic orientations, highlighting its ongoing programmes focused on youth and women’s capacity-building, fostering the values of coexistence, peace, and civilizational dialogue, promoting investment in technology, innovation, artificial intelligence, and space sciences, advancing futures and foresight literacy, and enhancing the global standing of the Arabic language.

    Dr. AlMalik commended Qatar’s exceptional educational system, noting the potential to leverage Qatari expertise and share it with other countries. He also invited the Qatari Ministry of Education and Higher Education to send its staff to ICESCO’s headquarters in Rabat for a series of training courses.

    For her part, Ms. Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater praised ICESCO’s efforts in advancing education, science and culture in its Member States, and expressed her interest in deepening cooperation with the Organization.

    ICESCO Director-General Participates in 26th Session of Council of International Islamic Fiqh Academy

    Posted on by mohamed.elmajdouby

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), participates in the 26th session of the Council of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA), a subsidiary organ of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, held in Doha from 4 to 8 May 2025, under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, in the presence of leading scholars and jurists from across the globe.

    A member of IIFA since 2020, Dr. AlMalik will serve as Rapporteur for the Conference’s third scientific session titled “Artificial Intelligence: Rulings, Controls, and Ethics,” to be held on Monday 5 May 2025. During the session, which will review 33 research papers on AI technologies, Dr. AlMalik will highlight ICESCO’s key efforts in this field, including the “Riyadh Charter on Artificial Intelligence in the Islamic World” and the establishment of ICESCO’s Center for Foresight and Artificial Intelligence.

    The scientific sessions of the Conference will address a range of contemporary jurisprudential, economic, and medical issues, including: Emerging Issues in Child Care; the Principle of Istishab (Presumption of Continuity) and its Application to Contemporary Issues; Artificial Intelligence:

    Rulings, Controls, and Ethics; Sharia Ruling on Third-Party Payment of Loan Excess and Fees for Letters of Guarantee and Credit; Electronic Games: Rulings and Controls; the Impact of Mental Illnesses on Legal Competence in Sharia; Sharia Governance in Modern Islamic Financial Institutions; Review and Discussion of Recommendations on Stunning Birds and Animals before Slaughter and its Implications on Halal Slaughtering; and Review and Discussion of the recommendations of the Symposium on Breastfeeding Premature Babies with the Milk of Known and Unknown Mothers


    The International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA) is a trusted scholarly institution for collective ijtihad, convening its members and representatives annually to examine emerging incidents and contemporary issues, and to develop shariah-based solutions through collective ijtihad.

    ICESCO and Baku International Multiculturalism Center sign MoU to promote cultural dialogue and international cooperation

    Posted on by Soukaina Azzabi

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Baku International Multiculturalism Center signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday, 30 April 2025, to perform a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing joint action to promote intercultural dialogue, foster values of mutual understanding, and encourage cultural exchange between ICESCO Member States and beyond.

    Anar Karimov, Head of ICESCO’s Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector, on behalf of the Organization’s Director General, and Ravan Hasanov, Director General of BIMC, signed the MoU at the official signing ceremony, during which the two parties stressed their mutual commitment to develop sustainable cooperation in the fields of culture and education.

    The signed MoU provides for the launch of joint academic and cultural programs, the promotion of capacity building and experience-sharing, as well as the dissemination of the principles of multiculturalism and peaceful coexistence to serve the comprehensive development efforts in ICESCO Member States and enhance the presence of universal human values.

    The signing ceremony was attended by a number of officials and diplomats, including Mr. Nazim Samadov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom of Morocco and its Permanent Representative at ICESCO, as well as a delegation from ICESCO’s Regional Office in Baku.

    The MoU is a new milestone in the path of strengthening cultural partnerships between ICESCO and Azerbaijan, and an illustration of the Organization’s vision to disseminate the culture of peace, promote cultural diversity, and strengthen global solidarity for more inclusive and sustainable societies.

    ICESCO, COMSATS Hold Session on Leveraging Technology for Better Outcomes in Maternal and Child Health

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS), based in Pakistan, held a digital session titled “Leveraging Technology for Better Outcomes in Maternal and Child Health.” The session aimed to explore the transformative role of digital technologies—such as telemedicine, mobile health solutions, and artificial intelligence—in enhancing maternal and child healthcare, particularly in remote areas.

    Held on Tuesday, 29 April 2025, the session opened with remarks by Ambassador Dr. Mohammad Nafees Zakaria, Executive Director of COMSATS, and Dr. Raheel Qamar, Head of ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector. Both emphasized the need to harness technology to address the pressing health challenges faced by mothers and children worldwide, reaffirming ICESCO’s and COMSATS’ shared commitment to promoting innovation and digital transformation in healthcare.

    The discussion, moderated by Dr. Adel Samida, an expert from ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector, featured a panel of international experts from the United States, Pakistan, France, and Zimbabwe. Participants shared experiences and discussed practical solutions to overcome barriers to the adoption of digital health technologies.

    The session concluded by underscoring the importance of collaboration among governments, international organizations, academic institutions, and technology providers to ensure equitable access to emerging healthcare technologies for all.

    ICESCO Participates in the International Conference on the Heritage of Imam Al-Maturidi in Uzbekistan

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) participated in the international scientific conference titled “Maturidism – A Doctrine of Tolerance, Moderation, and Enlightenment,” held in the city of Samarkand, Republic of Uzbekistan, over 29–30 April 2025. The event aims to highlight the contributions of Imam Maturidi and his doctrine to the development of Islamic sciences. The conference witnessed the high-level attendance of prominent scholars, ministers, and representatives of relevant international institutions.

    The conference began with opening remarks delivered by Mr. Ruslanbek Kuroltayevich Davletov, Advisor to the President, on behalf of His Excellency President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Subsequently, Dr. Abdelilah Benarafa, Deputy Director-General of ICESCO, delivered a speech emphasizing the urgent need to renew “Ilm al-Kalam” (the study of Islamic theology) in alignment with contemporary developments and emerging intellectual and religious challenges. He stated that revisiting the intellectual legacy of Imam Maturidi is an academic necessity commensurate with his intellectual stature—especially as the ongoing technological revolution has given rise to new issues that demand the development of a renewed “Ilm al-Kalam,” much like what Imam Maturidi achieved in his time.

    Dr. Benarafa also called for sustainable cooperation with academic institutions in Uzbekistan, referring to ICESCO’s signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Imam Maturidi International Research Center. The Organization looks forward to launching joint scientific initiatives, including the establishment of academic chairs in heritage, thought, and intercultural dialogue, as part of the project titled “ICESCO Pathways to the Future.”

    In addition, Ambassador Khalid Fathalrahman, Director of ICESCO’s Center for Civilizational Dialogue, delivered a presentation during one of the conference sessions titled “Foundational Principles of Cooperation between ICESCO and the Imam Maturidi International Research Center.” In his talk, he reviewed the importance of joint efforts between both sides to promote scientific research and to spread a culture of dialogue and mutual understanding among civilizations.

    ICESCO Opens Applications for its 2025 LTIPS Program

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) is pleased to announce the launch of applications for the 4th edition of its Leadership Training in Peace and Security (LTIPS) Program, to be held in 2025 under the theme: “Sowing the Seeds of Peace by Mobilizing Youth and Women.”

    The Organization calls on young women and men from Member States and beyond to submit their applications. A specialized jury will select a group of applicants, who will receive intensive training sessions in the fields of peace and security, aiming to qualify them to become ICESCO’s peace ambassadors.

    Building on the success of previous editions, which trained 180 young leaders from 68 countries, the 2025 LTIPS Program is anchored in ICESCO’s 360° Peace Approach. This multidisciplinary model aims to equip and mobilize emerging leaders to shape a more peaceful and inclusive future.

    LTIPS includes ten specialized training modules that focus on various dimensions of peacebuilding and peace promotion at the strategic, academic and community levels. The modules also provide the participants with the opportunity to interact with inspiring leaders from around the world, and benefit from intensive workshops.

    The training will conclude with a competition to honor the best innovative projects submitted by young leaders and provide the necessary financial and technical support for their implementation. LTIPS particularly encourages applications from young women given the pivotal role of women in achieving peace and security.

    The young peace ambassadors will have the opportunity to participate in international youth-related activities and enjoy an inspiring journey that brings together diverse cultures, faiths and civilizations to celebrate the beauty of diversity and peaceful coexistence.

    Eligibility Criteria:

    • Be aged between 18 and 35 years as of December 31, 2025.
    • Demonstrate commitment to issues of peace and security, and the rehabilitation of youth and women by providing a portfolio of their relevant work or research, whether at the academic level or as part of their work with associations and civil society organizations.
    • Be proficient in one of the Organization’s three official languages (Arabic, English or French) to ensure effective participation in all training sessions.

    Deadline to apply: May 31, 2025 at 23:59 GMT

    For more information and to apply:
    https://icesco.org/en/get-engaged/leadership-training-in-peace-and-security/

    Amid High-Level Attendance, ICESCO Inaugurates Regional Office in Baku, Azerbaijan

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) inaugurated its new Regional Office in Baku, Republic of Azerbaijan, on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, marking a strategic step toward strengthening cooperation with the Member States of Central Asia.

    The inauguration ceremony was attended by high-level dignitaries, notably Ms. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, and Ms. Arzu Aliyeva, Head of the Baku Media Center, along with a host of senior officials, ministers, ambassadors, and intellectuals.

    Other distinguished guests included Mr. Anar Alakbarov, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan; Mr. Adil Karimli, Minister of Culture and President of the National Commission for Education, Science and Culture; Mr. Emin Amrullayev, Minister of Science and Education; Mr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports; as well as the Governors of the Old City of Baku and Shusha.

    In his address, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO, stated that the inauguration of the Regional Office in Baku—a city of deep-rooted history and a cradle of peace and culture—ushers in a new beacon of education, science, culture, and communication.

    He emphasized that the Office will not only serve Azerbaijan but also meet the needs of the Member States of Central Asia, highlighting that this achievement is the result of the clear vision and wise leadership of H.E. President Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and his steadfast support for ICESCO’s mission in the Islamic world. Dr. AlMalik also expressed his gratitude to Ms. Mehriban Aliyeva, First Lady, First Vice President, and ICESCO Goodwill Ambassador.

    Speaking on the Office’s mission, Dr. AlMalik noted that it will work to advance ICESCO’s strategic priorities, particularly in areas such as environmental protection, the use of artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity, youth empowerment, and heritage preservation.

    At the close of the ceremony, the Director-General presented ICESCO Shields to Ms. Leyla Aliyeva and Ms. Arzu Aliyeva, in recognition of their presence and the strong support that Azerbaijan’s leadership continues to show for ICESCO.

    ICESCO’s Regional Office in Baku serves as a strategic platform for enhancing cooperation in education, science, and culture between ICESCO and countries including Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. It seeks to build fruitful partnerships with government institutions, academic and cultural bodies, as well as regional and international organizations, ensuring that ICESCO’s programs are aligned with the region’s specific context and development goals.

    ICESCO and Western Azerbaijan Community Explore Avenues to Strengthen Cooperation in Heritage Preservation

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Dr. Aziz Alekberli, President of the Western Azerbaijan Community, and several senior leaders of the Community on Tuesday, 29 April 2025, in Baku, Republic of Azerbaijan. The meeting focused on strengthening joint cooperation in the preservation of cultural heritage, particularly in areas affected by crises.

    At the outset of the meeting, held at the Community’s headquarters, Dr. Alekberli welcomed the Director-General of ICESCO and his accompanying delegation, commending the Organization’s efforts in safeguarding cultural heritage across the Islamic world. Dr. Alekberli emphasized the importance of protecting Islamic heritage in Azerbaijan and underscored the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation between ICESCO and the Western Azerbaijan Community to preserve endangered heritage.

    Dr. Salim AlMalik, for his part, emphasized the efforts led by ICESCO’s Islamic World Heritage Center and called for the inscription of diverse heritage elements on the Organization’s official list as a critical measure for their protection. Dr. AlMalik pointed out that only 16% of Islamic heritage has been inscribed to date, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced cooperation and sustained commitment by Member States to bridge this considerable gap.

    At the end of the meeting, both parties agreed to hold an international conference in Rabat in the near future to examine mechanisms for protecting Islamic heritage and to enhance coordination between ICESCO and the Western Azerbaijan Community in this strategic domain.

    The meeting was attended by Mr. Osama Heikal, Head of Media and Communication Sector, and Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector.

    ICESCO Director-General Takes Part in International Conference on “The Art of Bakhshi in New Uzbekistan”

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    Dr. Salim AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), affirmed that culture embodies the identity of peoples and forms a cornerstone of civilization. He emphasized that ICESCO, through its various programs and initiatives, works to preserve and valorize both tangible and intangible heritage in the Islamic world, employing the latest technologies and techniques in this regard.

    This was stated in his recorded address during the opening of the International Scientific Conference titled “The Art of Bakhshi in New Uzbekistan: Contemporary Research and Future Prospects,” held as part of the fourth edition of the International Bakhshi Art Festival in Khiva, Uzbekistan (April 26–28, 2025), and attended by around 200 participants from more than 40 countries.

    Dr. AlMalik added that ICESCO has inscribed the Uzbek art of Bakhshi on its Islamic World Heritage List, in recognition of the esteemed status of this ancient art in Uzbekistan’s history, its artistic value, its connection to pivotal transitional periods in Uzbek history, and its role in safeguarding collective memory and strengthening national identity.

    The ICESCO Director-General praised Uzbekistan’s rich heritage, stating:
    “In every stone of Uzbekistan’s ancient cities, history pulses with life, and heritage speaks in a thousand tongues, yet always whispers with the same spirit: the spirit of the Uzbeks — unbroken and unforgotten.”

    Dr. AlMalik concluded his address by referencing the celebration of Samarkand as the 2025 Capital of Culture in the Islamic World, as part of ICESCO’s Capitals of Culture Program. This aims to enhance the city’s cultural wealth through the implementation of a rich and diverse program, including numerous activities and initiatives throughout the entire year.