With a sense of satisfaction and pride, the Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, opened the first session of the Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) in Jakarta Monday. “This is a moment of profound historical significance,” stated the Secretary General. He said that the effort and positive energy put in the process of establishing the commission by both the General Secretariat and member states is commendable. It aptly reflects the ongoing process of “moderation and modernization” of the organization, he said. It symbolizes resolute joint Islamic action that forms the defining characteristic of the new OIC, he added. “We took action in a swift and time-bound fashion and framework,” Ihsanoglu said. Furthermore, the establishment of the commission has been a major focus of international attention, he said. It also reflects the member states' interest in and commitment to human rights. “Its true potential lies in making a sterling contribution to the credibility of OIC,” Ihsanoglu added.
