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1. Introduction
In the year 1974, the Islamic Summit Conference was held in Lahore, Pakistan. This was considered a historic event as it marked the first gathering of leaders of Muslim countries in the modern era. That was hosted by the then Prime Minister of Pakistan, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, who had a strong vision of bringing countries together to improve relations and strengthen cooperation. His intention to improve relations with countries through this was a rational approach to regional diplomacy, and it had a significant impact on the political landscape of the world.
Bhutto, a charismatic leader and a staunch advocate of Islamic unity, believed that the world needed to come together to address the challenges and issues faced by the ummah. He saw the Islamic Summit Conference as an opportunity to promote solidarity, unity, and cooperation among Muslim nation. The intention was not just to strengthen political ties but also to foster economic, cultural, and social cooperation among the people.
One of the main objectives was to create a platform for countries to discuss and address common issues and challenges. This included finding solutions to conflicts in the region, promoting economic development, and enhancing cooperation in the fields of education, science, and technology. Bhutto believed that by working together, the countries could overcome their differences and achieve mutual progress and prosperity.
Another important aspect of intention was to improve relations with countries through the conference was to counter the growing influence of Western powers in the region. He saw the league as a means to reduce the dependence om Western aid and support. He believed that by coming together, the Muslim world could create a strong and united front to protect their interests and assert their political and economic independence.
Furthermore, the approach to regional diplomacy through the Islamic Summit Conference was also driven by a desire to promote Islamic values and principles. He firmly believed that the conference would serve as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Muslim countries and promote the true essence of Islam. The conference as an opportunity to counter the negative narrative surrounding Islam and present a positive image of the religion to the world.
The Islamic Summit was a success in achieving Bhutto's intended goals....