JEDDAH, Monday, May 12, 2025 (WNP): The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Monday welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Republic of India, commending the role of specific countries that facilitated mediation efforts and helped bring the two sides to the negotiating table.

In a statement, the OIC called on the international community to intensify its efforts and encourage both countries to engage in sustained, constructive dialogue to resolve all outstanding disputes — particularly the Jammu and Kashmir issue — through peaceful means and in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.

Expressing serious concern over the recent military escalation in South Asia, the OIC condemned what it described as “unjustified strikes” on multiple locations within Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The organization urged both nations to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could further destabilize the region.

Reiterating its consistent stance, the General Secretariat stressed the importance of upholding the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and international law — including the respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of states — and called for strict adherence to agreements that safeguard civilians, residential areas, and critical infrastructure, including places of worship.

The OIC reaffirmed its principled position in support of a peaceful settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, emphasizing that a just resolution is essential for ensuring lasting peace and stability in South Asia and for preventing future conflict between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.