Jeddah, August 24, SPA -- The Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), Professor Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, who is following with grave concern the resurgence of violence in Somalia, called on all Somali parties to cease fire during the holy month of Ramadan in line with the values embodied by the fasting month, notably the rejection of violence and the promotion of tolerance and reconciliation. In a statement carried by OIC web-site today, the Secretary General pointed out that Islam lays emphasis on the sanctity of human life, affirming that the holy month of Ramadan offers a great opportunity for the various Somali parties to put an end to lethal violence and to terrorizing innocent civilians, and pave the way for a serious dialogue in order to clinch an agreement that would put an end to the long-dragging Somali crisis. Ihsanoglu stressed that a positive response by Somali parties to his call for a cease-fire during the holy month of Ramadan would provide security for the Somali people and allow them to fast and perform their religious rites peacefully. "That would also help humanitarian organizations to provide humanitarian needs to the needy". The Secretary General reiterated the OIC's commitment to maintain its efforts through its cooperation with the international community to assist the Somali parties in achieving reconciliation and firmly restoring peace to the country.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/694945