Ankara hosting OIC First Muslim Diaspora Forum

The Azerbaijani delegation, led by Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora Fuad Muradov, is participating in the 1st Muslim Diaspora Forum of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Ankara, Türkiye.

According to Report's Turkish bureau, the forum, held on September 8–9, is dedicated to the theme From Roots to Routes.

Muradov noted that in today's world, the concept of diaspora can no longer be limited to communities living outside their historical homelands:

"Diasporas have become living bridges connecting nations, cultures, knowledge, and cooperation between countries of origin and countries of residence. They contribute significantly to the social, economic, scientific, and cultural life of the societies they live in, while faithfully preserving their ties with their homelands, national identity, languages, and cultural heritage."

He emphasized that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev attaches special importance to strengthening ties with Azerbaijanis abroad, supporting their organization, preserving national identity, and encouraging active participation in the public life of their countries of residence:

"Guided by the President's policy, we place special emphasis on expanding relations with Azerbaijani communities worldwide, strengthening the activities of diaspora organizations, and further developing institutions such as Azerbaijani Houses, Sunday schools, and other diaspora structures."

The forum was organized by SESRIC (Statistical, Economic and Social Research and Training Centre for Islamic Countries) in cooperation with Türkiye's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB).

Its main goal is to promote the exchange of experiences in diaspora policies and initiatives, strengthen cooperation among OIC member states' diaspora institutions, and discuss ways to make more effective use of the potential of Muslim diasporas.