At the last stop in Sydney of his four-day official visit to Australia, the Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Iyad Ameen Madani met the Governor of New South Wales, Hon David Hurley AC DSC at the Government House. They discussed issues concerning the Muslim community in light of events in the Middle East and how it is affecting them. The Governor stressed that all communities are respected, maintain their identity and are integrated in a multicultural society. The OIC Secretary General on his part emphasized that citizens of any country should be loyal to that country and at the same time have rights that should be respected. These points were again stressed in the meeting with the Minister of Multiculturalism in New South Wales, John Ajaka, who said that the Australian communities work together to make multiculturalism work. He said his job is to ensure that the strategy is implemented and that there is harmonious relationship between the different communities. Furthermore, Australia has announced that it will accept 12000 refugees who need to be settled, assisted and feel inclusive. The Secretary General welcomed initiatives and programs in which the OIC can contribute towards achieving these objectives. The OIC Secretary General also had the opportunity to meet with the Grand Mufti of Australia, Imam Dr. Ibrahim Abu Mohamed and President of the Australian National Imams Council, Imam Shady Alsuleiman and other Muslim religious leaders. He heard from them on the generally good conditions of Muslims in Australia, but also on their concerns regarding the youth who become influenced by extremists' ideology through social media and direct contact. He exchanged views with them on what can be done and how, mentioning in this regard the messaging center which OIC is establishing to counter the propaganda of extremists.
