17 June 2004, Istanbul, Turkey – The campaign of the Philippines for an Observer seat in the Organization of the Islamic Conference has not only elicited the categorical support of a large number of OIC members, but has also served to deepen the understanding and the relationship  between the  Philippines and  individual members  of the  OIC,  according to  Foreign Affairs  Secretary  Delia Domingo Albert, who was in Istanbul for the 31st Session of the Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers.

“Our vigorous and sincere efforts to become an Observer in the OIC has not only given rise to a greater understanding of the peace dividends that would come about as a result of being an Observer in the OIC, but there is now even greater determination between the Philippines and individual OIC members to boost relations,” the Secretary said.

“Our campaign has not only led to the strong support of many OIC countries, but also to stronger bilateral ties,” she added.

During the recently concluded OIC meeting, an experts group was set up to address the issue of Observer.  No Observer seats were granted during this latest meeting.  However, the Philippines stood out during the conference as the only applicant for Observer status to be given a formal endorsement during Plenary.

“Peace dividends were what we were hoping for in our quest.  But we also received a number of bilateral dividends.  In my visits to OIC countries and during the 34 bilateral meetings with foreign ministers and heads of delegations I had here in Istanbul, we talked not only about supporting the Philippines as an Observer, but also about many issues of mutual concern, from economic and trade issues, to security and intelligence cooperation, to the protection of the safety and welfare of overseas Filipinos, to issues pending before the Security Council of the United Nations,” Secretary Albert said.

“I was deeply touched not only by the many offers of unequivocal support for our candidature in the OIC, but also by the clear and sincere desire of many members of the OIC to deepen their engagement with the Philippines,” the Secretary said. END.