ASEAN Stresses the Importance of Freedom in Al-Aqsa Mosque

Manila, MINA – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) expresses its deep concern on the recent incidents around the Al-Haram Al-Sharif compound that resulted in the loss of lives and injuries.

“ASEAN calls on all parties to exercise restraint and to contribute to maintaining peace, security and stability as well as to uphold the status quo of the Al-Haram Al-Sharif compound,” the Indonesian Foreign Ministry said , quoting  AEAN Foreign Ministers in their statement.

Therefore, ASEAN stresses the importance of ensuring freedom to practise one’s religion as a basic human right as well as reflection of respect for religious and cultural diversity.

It also recognizes that the sanctity of Al-Haram Al-Sharif compound as a holy site for various religions and faiths over the millennia must be preserved and protected.

ASEAN encourages the international community to contribute towards ensuring continued peace, security, stability and freedom to worship in Al-Haram Al-Sharif compound.

It further encourages the resumption of peace process between the Israeli and Palestinian sides with a view to achieving an enduring peace through a two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in secure and recognized borders.

ASEAN underscores that a final, just, and comprehensive solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can contribute towards peace and stability in the Middle East region and the world at large.(R/RE1/RS50

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)