Sudan-Malaysian relations model for Islamic states says President Al- Bashir
PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Oct. 14, 2003 (SUNA) — President of the republic, Gen Umar al-Bashir, has praised the existing cooperation between Sudan and Malaysia, adding that the ties between the two countries is a model for the relations among the member states of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC).
In an interview with the Malaysian News Straits Times newspaper, President Al-Bashir has commended the role of the Malaysian prime minister, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, and his wise policies which led to the current remarkable industrial and economic progress in Malaysia.
He described Dr Mahathir Mohamad as a model for the patriotic and wise leader who realized renaissance and development in his country.
President Al-Bashir expressed his regret over Dr Mahathir’s decision to step down from all his posts in the government and the party on 31 October.
He said that his relation with Dr Mahathir goes back to the year 1983 when he was receiving studies at the Malaysian Military Academy, adding that their fraternal relation has developed after the Salvation Revolution assumed power in Sudan.
He said that his fraternal relation with Dr Mahathir Mohamad has contributed to the consolidation of the relations between Sudan and Malaysia.
President Al-Bashir said that the cooperation between Sudan and Malaysia began at the cultural and economic fields and then witnessed progress, adding that the Malaysian Petronas has become the number one partner of Sudan in the country’s oil project.
Meanwhile, President Al-Bashir said that Sudan looks forward for the investment of Malaysian and Islamic companies and capitals in Sudan at different domains, including the agricultural and minerals’ fields.
He referred to the great progress which has been achieved in Sudan peace process, under auspices of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
He also called for amendment of the Charter of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) in a manner which enables the organization to utilize its tremendous capabilities to face the great challenges which are facing the Islamic World.
He said that the Islamic World is now facing a fierce campaign, a matter which necessitates cooperation and solidarity between all the Islamic nations.
President Al-Bashir has referred to the current Israeli assaults and inhuman practices against the Palestinian people, as well as what is going on in Afghanistan and Iraq.
He also stressed the importance of cooperation between the Islamic countries in the political, economic, military and security fields, and uniting their stance at all levels.