NIAMEY — Saudi Arabia welcomed the selection of Hissein Brahim Taha as Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Saturday.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomes the nomination of Mr. Taha, fulfilling the Kingdom’s previous commitment toward the African Group, and acting according to the organization’s charter regarding the choice of Secretary- General reflecting fair geographic representation, circulation and equal opportunities among member countries,” Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said in a statement.

“The Kingdom offers full support to the new Secretary- General stemming from its active role in serving Islamic causes around the world,” the minister added.

Hissein Brahim Taha has been elected Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) earlier on Saturday.

The Chadian diplomat was appointed after Yousef Al-Othaimeen’s tenure came to an end.

Al-Othaimeen welcomed the new Secretary-General at the 47th session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, in Niamey, Niger.

Taha, as well as those who served before him, was elected by the Council of Foreign Ministers and will serve a five-year period that may be renewed once, according to the OIC’s website.

Al-Othaimeen of Saudi Arabia has held the position since 2016. The Secretary General prior was also Saudi Arabian. Iyad Ameen Madani served from 2014 through 2016.

A total of 11 Secretary Generals have been elected since the establishment of the organization. — SG