The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)'s Secretary-General, Professor Ekmal-ul-Din Ihsanogli, welcomed the joint initiative launched by the Thai Government and Muslim factions intended to establish a ceasefire in the southern regions throughout the holy month of Ramadan. The Thai Premier, Her Excellency Mrs. Yingluck Shinawatra, met with the OIC's Secretary-General last Saturday and informed him about this initiative as well as latest developments in the region. 
Professor Ihsanogli said that the holy month of Ramadan provides an occasion for spiritual purity, patience, self-restraint, worshipping, serenity and peace. He urged the two sides to comply with the ceasefire, aspiring that this initiative will lead to more peaceful developments and building mutual trust on the road to reach an ultimate solution for conflict in the south. 
The OIC's Secretary-General expressed the OIC's readiness to participate in this process so that all the people in southern Thailand can enjoy peace, security and economic development. (IY)
 

Source: BNA