Third Islamic Summit Conference (April 20, 1981)

The third Islamic Conference was held at Makka Mukkarama from 19-22 Rabi-ul-Awwal 1401H (corresponding to 25-28 January,1981 AD), as a part of the world programme of Hijra Centenary Celebrations. The Summit Conference addressed itself to all major issues of common concern to the Muslim world in the political, economic and cultural fields. One of the foremost among them was the situation in Afghanistan
The Summit Conference reviewed the situation in Afghanistan especially in the light of the resolution adopted by the 35th Session of the U.N. General Assembly, which inter-alia expresses the hope that the U.N. Secretary General will “continue to extend assistance includ-ing the appointment of a Special Representative with a view to promoting a political solution” of the Afghan problem. Pakistan fervently hopes that the Afghan refugees would soon be in a position to return to their homes in safety and honour, and to this end is endeavouring for an early political solution of the Afghan crises.
The Summit adopted a comprehensive plan of action for the liberation of Al-Quds Al-Sharif and the restoration of the inalienable national rights of the Palestinian people includ-ing evacuation of the occupied Arab and Palestinian lands.
The Summit also deliberated upon the situation in the Middle East, the Iran - Iraq War, Muslim minorities and all round collaboration among Islamic countries in economic and cultural fields. A Plan of Action for determining the course of economic, technical, commercial and industrial cooperation among Islamic countries, was also approved by the Summit Confe-rence. The Third Islamic Summit Conference, apart from demonstrating to the whole world the solidarity of Islamic countries, was an occasion for fostering greater awareness for the unity and brotherhood in ranks of Islamic Ummah. On the political plan, participation in the Summit was an act of dedication by member states to the objectives and principles of the Organisation of Islamic Conference.
The Third Islamic Summit Conference will remain an important landmark in the Islamic Ummah’s quest for united striving towards peace and prosperity of the entire world.
To commemorate the Third Islamic Summit Conference, Pakistan Post Off ice has already issued first series of five stamps (in three designs) on the 29th March, 1981, focusing attention on the Afghan Refugees. The second series of four commemorative stamps (in two designs) will issue on the 20th April. 1981.