Riyadh (UNA-OIC) – Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh has hosted this week the international forum titled “Promoting friendship and cooperation between nations and peoples”.
The conference, held in partnership with the United Nations and European Union, focused on the role of women in societies, with the view of helping to achieve equity in all types of leadership positions.
The event was attended by Secretary-General of the Muslim World League (MWL) Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, and Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, Croatia’s former president and an activist working on promoting women’s rights.
“Continuing efforts to strengthen friendship and cooperation among nations and peoples is an urgent necessity for the peace of our world and the harmony of its diverse national societies,” Sheikh Al-Issa said.
The MWL chief stressed that women have been marginalized throughout history, which has deprived societies of their skills and competencies. Their successes and influence, he added, have been abundantly demonstrated at various levels.
Highlighting the positive changes taking place in Saudi Arabia, Grabar-Kitarović said: “I am delighted to witness these historic changes here in person in Riyadh, and I would like to congratulate you for your contribution, efforts and dedication to engaging women.”
“I must say that when I came to the Kingdom two days ago, I came with a little misunderstanding, as my knowledge was based on what I read in the international media,” she added, expressing her appreciation of what has been achieved so far.
