Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the summit of the Organization of the Islamic Conference

In answer to questions, the Secretary-General wishes to make it clear that he greatly regrets being unable to attend this week's summit of the Organization of the Islamic Conference. He attaches great importance to the OIC, and had planned to attend, but unfortunately has to remain in New York for very important discussions relating to Iraq, in which he is intimately involved. He is, however, sending Mr. Lakhdar Brahimi, his Special Representative for Afghanistan, to represent him at the summit and to read a statement on his behalf. The Secretary-General will be speaking to the Prime Minister of Malaysia later today.