JEDDAH: Islamic states have discussed lessons learned from the pandemic and how they can better work with others in a future health emergency.

During a one-day seminar by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, experts and academics spoke about the experience of countries during COVID-19 and beyond. 

The meetings explored views from the Islamic world on how the pandemic was viewed from a civilizational perspective, and how international bodies can cooperate more closely.

Representatives also discussed preparations for a possible future health crisis, and the strengthening of cooperation between the OIC and major countries in addressing the danger. The meeting was titled “Connecting further at the post-COVID-19 contemporary world: Enhancing dialogue between the Islamic world and other great civilizations.” 

It was chaired by Tarig Ali Bakheet, the OIC’s assistant secretary-general for humanitarian, cultural and social affairs. Globally, around 627 million cases of COVID-19 have been reported in 228 countries, and more than 6.5 million people have died after contracting the virus.