The Mozambican government has called for stronger international cooperation in combating terrorism and responding to climate change, arguing that these challenges require not only security measures but also investments in education, job creation, and economic development.

The position was presented by the Minister of Justice, Constitutional and Religious Affairs, Mateus Saize, during the 52nd Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), held on 17 and 18 October in Baghdad, Iraq.

According to the Mozambique News Agency (AIM), the minister identified terrorism, international trade tensions, and extreme climate events as among the principal challenges facing the country.

Mateus Saize argued that the fight against violent extremism should not be confined to security operations, stressing the equal importance of investing in education, social inclusion, and the creation of economic opportunities, particularly for young people.

The minister reaffirmed Mozambique’s commitment to peace and stability, advocating dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law as the primary instruments for resolving conflicts.

On the climate front, he warned of the country’s vulnerability to cyclones, floods, and droughts, which deepen poverty, damage agricultural output, and undermine economic development.

In this context, he called for greater cooperation on climate adaptation, disaster prevention, sustainable agriculture, and the construction of infrastructure resilient to extreme weather events.

The minister also expressed gratitude for the support extended to Mozambique by OIC member states through the Islamic Solidarity Fund.

On the economic front, Mateus Saize urged the organisation to translate its decisions into concrete trade, investment, and infrastructure development initiatives.

Among the sectors with the greatest potential for cooperation, he highlighted agriculture, fisheries, energy, transport, logistics, tourism, education, and health, as well as digital transformation.

Mateus Saize also underscored the importance of public-private partnerships, technology transfer, and cooperation among developing countries as drivers of economic growth and employment.

During the meeting, Mozambique also reaffirmed its support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and a two-state solution, calling for the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders and United Nations resolutions.

The minister appealed for the continuation of diplomatic efforts to achieve a lasting resolution to the Middle East conflict and to ensure humanitarian assistance reaches affected populations.

The meeting was held under the theme ‘Dialogue and Solidarity are Fundamental Pillars for Advancing Peace and Sustainable Development’, against a backdrop of international tensions and economic, climate, and humanitarian challenges.