Mohammad Khatami's Proposal for the Formation of an Islamic Union - 2002-07-22

Mohammad Khatami, the President of Iran, during extensive discussions with Mahathir Mohamad, the leader of Malaysia, has proposed the establishment of an Islamic Union. The two leaders met today in Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia, under heavy security conditions. After the discussions, Syed Hamid Albar, the Malaysian Foreign Minister, told reporters that Mr. Khatami intends to create a union that would give all Islamic countries a significant role in global affairs. The details of this plan have not been disclosed, but according to the Malaysian Foreign Minister, the idea of forming an Islamic Union is still in very early stages. He stated that Mr. Khatami and Mr. Mahathir have found common ground regarding the causes of terrorism. The two leaders agreed on the need to combat oppression and injustice, which often drives people to commit terrorist acts. Mr. Mahathir will chair an important summit of Islamic Conference member states next year. According to the Malaysian Foreign Minister, the leaders of Iran and Malaysia share a consensus that this conference should be used as a platform to improve the image, reputation, and position of Islam. Last week, the Prime Minister of Malaysia stated that the Islamic world is severely weak and backward, and instead of insisting on Islamic hijab or other minor issues, efforts should be made for progress and development. Mr. Mahathir and Mr. Khatami agreed that any military action by the United States against Iraq would harm global stability.