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    Category: News

    ICESCO Hosts Scientific Forum ‘Ramadan Journey into the Depths of the Human Soul’ for Second Consecutive Year

    Posted on by mohamed.elmajdouby

    For the second consecutive year, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) hosted the scientific forum “Ramadan Journey into the Depths of the Human Soul” at its headquarters on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. The event was organized in cooperation with the Group of Spouses of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations in Morocco.

    The forum featured Dr. Khadija Abouzid, Professor of Higher Education at the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences, Mohammed V University of Rabat, who delivered a lecture titled “Stories and Lessons.” The event was attended by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, along with several ambassadors accredited to Morocco and members of the Group of Spouses of Ambassadors.

    In her opening remarks, Ms. Rania Shobaki, Chairwoman of the Group of Spouses of Arab Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations in Morocco, praised the forum as an outstanding example of cooperation between ICESCO and the Group in cultural, social, intellectual, and spiritual fields. She commended ICESCO for hosting the event for the second consecutive year as part of its ongoing scientific and intellectual mission.

    Dr. Yousra Bint Hussain Al-Jazairy, a member of the Group, highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a time for soul-searching, self-cultivation, and the reinforcement of values such as mercy, tolerance, and benevolence. She noted that the lecture provided an intellectual and spiritual journey aimed at fostering self-understanding and deepening appreciation for the noble values of the holy month. “The forum reflects our firm belief in the importance of knowledge and contemplation in promoting human values and concepts. It also embodies the spirit of fruitful cooperation between international institutions and their communities in the service of intellectual, psychological, and spiritual well-being,” she added, concluding her remarks by thanking ICESCO for its efforts in promoting intellectual, cultural, and scientific dialogue.

    In her lecture, Dr. Abouzid focused on the story of Maryam (Mary), peace be upon her, and the profound lessons it offers on resilience through life’s challenges. She pointed out that the Quran references her story 30 times and dedicates an entire chapter to her, emphasizing the messages of peace, patience, mercy, and serenity during hardship. Dr. Abouzid also highlighted the miraculous events surrounding Maryam’s story, beginning with the pregnancy of Prophet Zakariya’s (Zachariah) wife, peace be upon him, despite her old age and culminating in the miraculous birth of Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be upon him.

    Following the lecture, Dr. Abouzid engaged with the audience in a question-and-answer session.

    In his closing remarks, Dr. AlMalik described the lecture as an insightful journey through Surah Maryam, which Allah Almighty revealed to vindicate Maryam and immortalize her miracle. He praised the discussion for its depth and relevance, reinforcing the significance of such forums in enriching intellectual and spiritual dialogue.

    ICESCO Director-General Visits Historic Landmarks of Kairouan

    Posted on by Soukaina Azzabi

    On Thursday, 27 February 2025, Dr. Salim AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), visited Kairouan, Tunisia, where he was welcomed at the governorate headquarters by Mr. Dhaker Bargaoui, Governor of Kairouan, along with several Tunisian cultural and heritage experts, including Mr. Tarek Baccouche, Director-General of the National Heritage Institute, and Ms. Rabiaa Belfguira, Director-General of the Agency for Heritage Revival and Cultural Development. The discussions centered on ICESCO’s ongoing efforts to preserve the cultural heritage of its Member States, inscribe archaeological sites on ICESCO’s Islamic World Heritage List, and explore avenues for bilateral cooperation in cultural and heritage fields through joint programs and projects.

    Following the meeting, Dr. AlMalik, accompanied by his hosts, embarked on a tour of Kairouan’s historical landmarks, starting with the Great Mosque of Uqba Ibn Nafi, the first mosque built in the city and one of the largest and most significant mosques in North Africa. Its origins date back over thirteen centuries, and houses the oldest pulpit in the Islamic world, crafted in the 3rd century AH (9th century CE), alongside its exquisite maqsurah, which dates to the 5th century AH (11th century CE).

    During the visit, insights were shared about Kairouan’s historical role in the Islamic world, its intellectual and architectural legacy, and its lasting cultural influence.
    The tour also included a visit to the National Museum of Islamic Arts in Raqqada, where Dr. AlMalik explored its exhibits of historical artifacts, rare coins, and unique manuscripts.

    He praised the Museum’s manuscript restoration laboratory and the advanced scientific methods used in preserving and restoring manuscripts, emphasizing the importance of sharing expertise among ICESCO’s Mhember States.

    He further ighlighted the need to protect Qur’anic and scientific manuscripts that document the region’s history and the golden age of Islam. Additionally, he reaffirmed ICESCO’s support for the initiative of the President of Tunisia, H.E. Kais Saied, to establish the International Center for Calligraphy Arts, “Iqraa,” which aligns with ICESCO’s growing focus on calligraphy and manuscripts, as demonstrated by its recently inaugurated specialized Center.


    This visit followed the conclusion of ICESCO’s 45th Executive Council, held in Tunis on February 25–26, 2025.

    It is worth noting that Kairouan, located 156 kilometers south of Tunis, holds a distinguished place in Islamic history as the first Islamic city established in North Africa. Founded by Uqba Ibn Nafi in 50 AH (670 CE), it served as a gateway for the spread of Islam into Algeria, Morocco, Spain, and Africa. The city is home to numerous mosques, shrines of Companions and saints, and significant archaeological sites, contributing to its rich tangible and intangible heritage. Furthermore, Kairouan boasts a profound scholarly legacy, being the first major center of learning in the Islamic metropolises in the western Mediterranean, preceding Córdoba and Fez. Recognizing its historical and cultural importance, ICESCO inscribed Kairouan on its Islamic World Heritage List in 2019, bringing the total number of inscribed sites and cultural elements to 724.

    ICESCO Continues Organizational Restructuring to Keep Pace with Global Developments and the Aspirations of the Islamic World

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) is pressing ahead with ambitious steps to revamp its organizational structure, ensuring it remains aligned with global developments and meets the aspirations of Member States. These accelerated efforts reflect ICESCO’s commitment to its role in advancing its areas of competence and reaffirming its strategic vision as a beacon of cultural and intellectual influence for the Islamic world.

    As part of these efforts, ICESCO has established new specialized sectors, including Media and Communication, as well as dedicated centers for Poetry and Literature, Calligraphy and Manuscripts, and Training. This restructuring received unanimous approval from ICESCO’s Executive Council during its 45th session, held on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, in Tunis under the patronage of President Kais Saied.

    On this occasion, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, emphasized that the new organizational structure aims to expand the Organization’s scope in creative fields. He highlighted ICESCO’s recent initiatives in environmental studies, foresight, artificial intelligence, and space sciences and their applications, where the Organization has either pioneered innovative programs or made significant strides in helping Islamic countries catch up with global advancements.

    Dr. AlMalik further noted that ICESCO’s achievements over the past five years stem from several key factors, including attracting top talents from across the Islamic world, securing innovative funding sources beyond the general budget, promoting creativity and innovation, empowering youth and women, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to programs outreach.

    Mr. Osama Heikal, Head of ICESCO’s Media and Communication Sector and former Minister of Information of Egypt, stated that a strategic plan for 2025–2030 has been developed to position ICESCO as a leading international reference in media, communication, and creative industries, and establish it as a hub for the dissemination of knowledge, culture, and human values. The plan includes an international forum for media leaders, the launch of a specialized media platform, a media academy, a women’s media center, and awards for excellence.

    Rawda Al-Haj, expert in ICESCO’s Culture Sector and a renowned Sudanese poet, stated that the Poetry and Literature Center will enrich the cultural landscape of the Islamic world, expand horizons in poetry and literature, and strengthen literary ties among countries of the Islamic world, with the aim of making ICESCO a world poetry and literature venue. The Center’s initiatives include releasing the ICESCO Cultural Journal, organizing an international poetry festival and various literary competitions.

    Dr. Idham Hanish, expert in the Culture Sector and a prominent Arabic calligrapher, highlighted that the Calligraphy and Manuscripts Center will focus on both traditional and modern calligraphy, integrating digital printing and artificial intelligence while supporting calligraphers and artisans. The Center plans to develop the ICESCO typographic font and publish the Illustrated Dictionary of the History of Arabic Calligraphy.

    For his part, Mr. Mohamed Hedi Shili, Head of ICESCO Legal Affairs and International Standards Department, stated that the Training Center will serve as a comprehensive platform offering capacity-building programs to develop human resources, empower local communities in Member States in various fields, harness cultural resources for sustainable development, and enhance staff competencies within ICESCO.

    ICESCO’s ambitious steps come just one year after a major administrative and structural overhaul in collaboration with the Saudi Institute of Public Administration, a leading institution in institutional development. This led to the creation of the Strategy and Institutional Excellence Sector, the Islamic World Heritage Center, the Chairs, Scholarships, and Prizes Center, and the Digital Transformation Department. The latest structural amendments, approved by the Executive Council, reinforce ICESCO’s ongoing commitment to renewal and progress, ensuring that it continues to serve the Islamic world effectively and driving its development. These efforts seek to uphold a civilization that has led way in science, literature, and arts, and that laid the groundwork for the renaissance shaping the modern world.

    ICESCO Participates in Oman Climate Week, Launches Disaster Risk Reduction Policy Document

    Posted on by Soukaina Azzabi

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) participated in Oman Climate Week, held in Muscat under the theme “Life in a Sustainable World.” The event brought together international leaders and experts to discuss practical environmental solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change and explore best practices and policies to address these challenges.

    Dr. Adel Smeda and Dr. Wissam Chehade, experts from ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector, represented the organization at the event, which took place from February 24 to 27, 2025. They discussed ways to enhance resilience to climate change and the role of modern technologies in mitigating the impacts of climate crises on individuals and communities.

    As part of the week’s activities, ICESCO, in partnership with the Oman National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science and the Oman Environment Authority, organized a discussion session titled “Shaping Policies for Resilient Communities: Best Practices for Disaster Risk Reduction and Early Warning Systems.” The session provided a platform for participants to exchange insights on disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, and the development of early warning systems. It also highlighted technological innovations, integrated policies, and financial mechanisms that can help Member States build more climate-resilient societies.

    ICESCO’s participation in Oman Climate Week coincided with the launch of its policy document, “Best Practices for Disaster Risk Reduction and Early Warning Systems.” This strategic guide offers Member States practical insights to enhance preparedness and response strategies by integrating the latest AI technologies, data analytics, and satellite monitoring.

    To access the document, visit:
    https://icesco.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Best-Practice-Policy-Document-on-DRR-and-EWS-1.pdf

    Saudi Arabia to Host ICESCO’s 46th Executive Council and 15th General Conference

    Posted on by mohamed.elmajdouby

    The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science have signed an agreement for Saudi Arabia to host ICESCO’s 46th Executive Council and 15th General Conference in January 2026.

    The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 45th session of ICESCO’s Executive Council, held in Tunis on Wednesday, 26 February 2025. Dr. Salim Al Habsi, Director of ICESCO’s General Secretariat for National Committees and Conferences, and Mr. Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Bulahid, Secretary General of the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, formalized the arrangement, outlining the organizational and logistical framework for the upcoming events, including preparations and necessary services for participants.

    Saudi Arabia’s hosting of these key ICESCO meetings underscores its commitment to supporting the organization’s mission of fostering cooperation among Member States in education, science, and culture. The Kingdom’s initiative also aligns with broader efforts to achieve sustainable development and enhance dialogue and understanding among nations.

    ICESCO Director-General Meets Assistant to the President of Tajikistan for International Affairs

    Posted on by Soukaina Azzabi

    Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Mr. Azamsho Sharifi, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Tajikistan for International Affairs and his delegation, on the sidelines of the 45th session of the Executive Council of ICESCO, held in the Republic of Tunisia under the patronage of His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed.

    During the meeting, which took place on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, in Tunis, and was attended by Mr. Akram Karimi, Ambassador of Tajikistan to Saudi Arabia, Dr. AlMalik expressed gratitude to the Tajik delegation for their active participation in the Executive Council’s proceedings.

    Dr. AlMalik reaffirmed ICESCO’s commitment to valuing and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world, particularly in the Central Asian region. He also emphasized the Organization’s readiness to engage Tajik experts in its initiatives to further enrich its work.

    Additionally, Dr. AlMalik outlined ICESCO’s efforts in the environmental sector, highlighting its innovative programs aimed at combating climate change, enhancing food security, and actively participating in global climate-related forums and summits.
    Mr. Sharifi, in turn, extended an invitation to Dr. AlMalik to attend the International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation, scheduled for May 2025 in Dushanbe. Dr. AlMalik welcomed the invitation and reiterated ICESCO’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between the two sides.

    Mr. Sharifi also acknowledged ICESCO’s esteemed role in Tajikistan and emphasized his country’s eagerness to expand cooperation with the Organization in environmental initiatives, climate change mitigation, and civilizational dialogue.
    The meeting was also attended by Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of the Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector, and Ambassador Khaled Fatah Al-Rahman, Head of the Center for Civilizational Dialogue.

    ICESCO’s Executive Council Concludes with Groundbreaking Initiatives and New Sector Establishments

    Posted on by mohamed.elmajdouby

    The 45th session of the Executive Council of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) concluded on Wednesday in Tunis under the patronage of His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed, represented by the Ministry of Education. The Council approved various decisions and projects submitted by ICESCO’s General Directorate.

    The session commenced with presentations by ICESCO’s specialized sectors, departments, and centers, highlighting key programs and projects implemented over the past year. Among these were the executive report on ICESCO’s 2024 activities and reports on initiatives such as the Hiveflow platform, the ICESCO Year of Youth, the Young Professionals Program, “Leap to Learning 500,” and “Esnad: Sudan as a Model.” A short film was also screened, showcasing nine international excellence awards recently received by ICESCO for management, governance, and innovation.

    During working sessions, specialized sectors introduced new projects and initiatives for approval, detailing ICESCO’s latest advancements, including the establishment of the Media and Communication Sector. Mr. Osama Heikal, Head of the new sector, outlined its strategic plan for 2025-2030, emphasizing ICESCO’s vision of achieving international leadership in media and communication. The plan focuses on adapting to contemporary communication developments, countering media misinformation, addressing identity crises among youth, providing media training, expanding ICESCO’s media relations, and organizing specialized programs and forums.

    Additionally, the Council approved the creation of new centers, including the Calligraphy and Manuscripts Center, the Training Center, and the Poetry and Literature Center. Dr. Rawda Al-Haj, an expert in the Culture Sector, highlighted the Poetry and Literature Center’s role in enriching the cultural landscape of the Islamic world and positioning ICESCO as a global hub for poetry and literature. Dr. Edham Hanash, also from the Culture Sector, explained that the Calligraphy and Manuscripts Center will focus on preserving and promoting traditional and modern calligraphy while supporting calligraphers and artisan artists.

    Meanwhile, Dr. Mohamed Hedi Shili, Director of the Legal Affairs and International Standards Department, detailed how the Training Center will offer innovative programs to equip human resources with essential skills for emerging challenges.

    The Council also approved the observer membership requests of the Federal Republic of Brazil and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT). Amendments were made to several articles in the Personnel Regulations and the Internal Regulations of the Compensation Fund, along with the endorsement of the Riyadh AI Charter for the Islamic World.

    Discussions also addressed the educational, scientific, and cultural conditions in Palestine, as well as draft resolutions and action plans submitted by ICESCO’s General Directorate. The Council approved Saudi Arabia’s request to host ICESCO’s 46th Executive Council and 15th General Conference, formalizing an agreement to facilitate logistical and organizational preparations. The agreement includes provisions for periodic meetings to monitor progress and ensure comprehensive services for participants, ensuring the success of the upcoming Council session in the Kingdom.

    Concluding the session, ICESCO’s Director-General, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, expressed gratitude to Council members and guests for their constructive contributions and for adopting all submitted documents. He emphasized that these recommendations would propel ICESCO forward in achieving its ambitious goals and strengthening its role in fostering cooperation and development across the Islamic world. A cable of thanks was sent to President Kaïs Saïed for hosting and supporting the Council’s sessions, endorsing key initiatives, and reaffirming Tunisia’s strong commitment to ICESCO’s mission in advancing education, science, and culture.

    Le Directeur général de l’ICESCO s’entretient avec l’Assistant du Président de la République du Tadjikistan chargé des affaires étrangères

    Posted on by Soukaina Azzabi

    En marge des travaux de la 45ᵉ session du Conseil exécutif de l’Organisation du Monde Islamique pour l’Éducation, les Sciences et la Culture (ICESCO), tenue en Tunisie sous le haut patronage du Président Kaïs Saïed, Dr Salim M. AlMalik, Directeur général de l’ICESCO, s’est entretenu avec M. Azamsho Sharifi, Assistant du Président de la République du Tadjikistan chargé des affaires étrangères, ainsi qu’avec la délégation qui l’accompagne.

    Lors de cette réunion, tenue mercredi 26 février 2025 à Tunis, en présence de M. Akram Karimi, Ambassadeur du Tadjikistan auprès du Royaume d’Arabie Saoudite, Dr. AlMalik a salué la participation distinguée de la délégation tadjike aux séances de travail du Conseil exécutif. Il a également réaffirmé l’engagement de l’ICESCO à promouvoir le patrimoine du monde islamique et à mettre en lumière l’héritage civilisationnel de ses États membres en Asie centrale. Par ailleurs, il a souligné la volonté de l’Organisation d’accueillir des compétences tadjikes dans ses secteurs et départements afin de leur offrir l’opportunité de contribuer à ses missions.

    En outre, le Directeur général de l’ICESCO a mis en avant les efforts déployés par l’Organisation en matière de protection de l’environnement, notamment à travers la mise en œuvre de plusieurs programmes et initiatives innovants visant à lutter contre les changements climatiques dans les États membres et à renforcer la sécurité alimentaire. Il a également rappelé la participation active de l’ICESCO aux événements et sommets internationaux consacrés aux enjeux climatiques.

    De son côté, M. Sharifi a invité Dr AlMalik à prendre part aux travaux de la Conférence internationale de haut niveau sur la protection des glaciers, prévue en mai 2025 à Douchanbé. Ce dernier s’est félicité de cette invitation et a réaffirmé la volonté de l’ICESCO de renforcer la coopération bilatérale dans les mois à venir.

    Pour sa part, l’Assistant du Président de la République du Tadjikistan a salué le rôle prépondérant de l’ICESCO dans son pays et exprimé son souhait de renforcer la coopération avec l’Organisation, notamment dans les domaines de l’environnement, de la lutte contre les changements climatiques et du dialogue civilisationnel.

    Ont également pris part à cette réunion M. Anar Karimov, Chef du Secteur des Partenariats et de la Coopération internationale, ainsi que l’ambassadeur Khalid Fathalrahman, Directeur du Centre du Dialogue civilisationnel.

    ICESCO Signs Two MoUs to Promote Innovative Financing and Digital Transformation in Education

    Posted on by MOHAMED.AQEIL

    On the sidelines of the 45th session of its Executive Council, held in Tunis, and as part of its efforts to promote sustainable development, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) signed two memorandums of understanding on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, with the Arab Society for Economic Research and the Tunisian National Center for Education Technologies, respectively.

    The MoUs aim to promote innovative financing and digital transformation in education. The first MoU was signed by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, and Dr. Ashraf El-Araby, Secretary General of the Arab Society for Economic Research. It aims to promote research on innovative financing mechanisms to support development projects, research and advisory cooperation, organize annual meetings, prepare sustainable action plans, and create platforms for knowledge exchange to support Member States in achieving knowledge-based economic development.

    The second memorandum was signed by Mr. Anar Karimov, Head of ICESCO’s Partnerships and International Cooperation Sector, and Mr. Skander Ghenia, Director General of the Tunisian National Center for Education Technologies. It focuses on enhancing the use of artificial intelligence and modern technologies in education, and provides for conducting research studies on the impact of technology in education, organizing workshops and training programs, and launching pilot projects in Tunisian educational institutions to assess the impact of digital transformation on the quality of education.

    The two memorandums are part of ICESCO’s efforts to devise innovative financing mechanisms, promote digital transformation in education, and cooperate with regional and international institutions to support innovation and invest in the future of the next generations.

    Under the Patronage of H.E. President Kaïs Saïed, the 45th ICESCO Executive Council Session Kicks Off in Tunisia

    Posted on by mohamed.elmajdouby

    On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, the Republic of Tunisia, represented by its Ministry of Education, hosted the 45th session of the Executive Council of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO). Held under the patronage of His Excellency President Kaïs Saïed, the Executive Council brought together representatives of ICESCO Member States, ministers, ambassadors, officials, and delegates from regional and international organizations.

    Chaired by Dr. Salim Al Habsi, Head of ICESCO’s General Secretariat of National Commissions and Conferences, the 45th session opened with remarks from Tunisia’s Minister of Education, Noureddine Nouri, in which he reiterated his appreciation to ICESCO for holding its Executive Council in Tunisia, reflecting the Organization’s vital role in strengthening ties among its Member States. He also affirmed Tunisia’s full commitment to supporting ICESCO’s efforts in planning and implementing various educational, scientific, and cultural initiatives and proposals.

    Following that, Dr. Mohamed Ayman Ashour, Egypt’s Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and President of ICESCO’s 14th General Conference, delivered an address emphasizing the need for unity among the leaders and peoples of the Islamic world in light of the significant challenges facing the region. He stated, “Our unity is not only one of faith and culture but also of history and destiny.” Dr. Ashour stressed ICESCO’s full recognition of the importance of coordinating efforts in its fields of action to cultivate generations of young innovators and scientists who possess a deep understanding of the present and the key to success in shaping the future.

    For his part, Dr. Dawas Tayseer Rashid Dawas, Chairman of the ICESCO Executive Council and Secretary-General of the Palestinian National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, emphasized that the Executive Council serves as a platform where ideas translate into action and planning leads to implementation, all in pursuit of comprehensive development. He described it as a cornerstone for shaping ICESCO’s policies and setting its priorities, highlighting the need for teamwork, constructive collaboration, and innovative proposals that enhance the Organization’s efficiency and advance its noble mission.

    Next, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, gave an address expressing gratitude to the Republic of Tunisia—its leadership, people, and government—for the honorable hosting of the Executive Council proceedings. Dr. AlMalik outlined three key objectives of the session, stating: “We convene, first, to reaffirm our commitment to partnership, upholding its values through a united vision and coordinated actions. Second, to engage in a constructive review of our achievements, which requires keen insights and thoughtful critique. Third, to adopt a confident, forward-looking approach, exploring future opportunities and defining their scope.” Dr. AlMalik further emphasized that ICESCO has earnestly represented the visions of its Member States, evolving into a globally recognized organization with impactful contributions. He highlighted the Organization’s efforts in establishing institutional mechanisms for future foresight, preparing young generations, and developing innovative civilizational concepts that offer effective solutions.

    The opening session also featured remarks from distinguished guests. Dr. Saud Hilal Al-Harbi, former Director-General of ALECSO and former Minister of the Ministries of Education and Higher Education in Kuwait, highlighted the determination and leadership demonstrated by Dr. AlMalik and ICESCO’s staff. He praised the Organization’s commitment to change, its infusion of new talent, and its many achievements.

    In a recorded remark, Dr. Moustafa Osman Ismaïl, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sudan, commended the notable progress ICESCO has made. He highlighted the Organization’s openness, its recruitment of youth and women, and its work environment rooted in creativity and innovation—factors that have positioned it alongside leading international organizations.

    Likewise, in his recorded remark, Dr. Khaled El-Enany, former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt and candidate for the UNESCO Director-General position, also praised ICESCO’s efforts and achievements that have impacted its Member States in several fields, stressing that this session of the Executive Council is an opportunity to develop mechanisms for joint action.

    The opening session featured a video highlighting the international certificates of excellence recently awarded to ICESCO in management, governance, and innovation. This was followed by the signing of cooperation agreements between ICESCO, the Arab Society for Economic Research (ASFER), and the National Center for Technologies in Education (CNTE) in Tunisia, aimed at strengthening collaboration in innovative financing, artificial intelligence, and its applications in education.

    The Executive Council sessions then commenced with a review of the Organization’s performance reports over the past year and its future plans. The session also approved the applications of the Federative Republic of Brazil and the International Institute for the Unification of Private Law (UNIDROIT) to join ICESCO as Observer Members.