The ninth Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) Summit begins in the Qatar capital of Doha tomorrow (Sunday) amidst last-ditch efforts to ensure participation of all 55 member-states. The three-day summit is expected to adopt a tough resolution against Israeli aggression on the Palestinians In the Gaza Strip and West Bank.

Prime Minister Sheikh Haslna leaves the capital for Doha today lo attend the Islamic summit. She will lead a 55-member Bangladesh delegation.

The summit was thrown Into doubt Wednesday last when Saudi Arabia announced that It would boycott the November 12-14 assembly over "continued deterioration tn the situation In the occupied Arab territories, particularly in Jerusalem."

The Muslim powerhouse, home to the OIC, was actually irked by Qatar’s refusal to severe trade links with Israel.

On Thursday, following Qatar's decision to

shut down Israel's trade office In Doha, Saudi Arabia changed its heart. The Saudi cabinet announced yesterday that Crown Prince Abdullah bln Abdel Aziz, who stands in for the ailing King Fahd, would represent the kingdom at the three-day conference.

Meanwhile, an Iranian envoy In Doha announced last week that President Mohammad Khatami would take part in the summit. Libya and Bahrain, however, decided to stay away.

As many as 30 or more member countries would send top-level delegations led by heads of stale, said sources in Dhaka.

The Prime Minister apart. Bangladesh’s delegation would Include Foreign Minister Abdus Samad Azad’, foreign secretary. principal secretary and press secretary to PM. The entourage also includes PM's sister Sheikh Rehana, a number of ruling party lawmakers, officials and a media team.

Foreign Minister is already in Doha to attend a two-day ministerial preparatory session, which began Thursday.

Formation of a common market for QIC members Is top on the Bangladesh s agenda. Dhaka believes that such a common market would create an enabling environment for boosting trade ^nd investment, and help expand commerce among member coun tries.

Besides. Sheikh Hasina is also expected to propose setting up of an advanced Islamic medical "JK’ralning and research centre In Dhaka.

Dhaka Is also expected to seek greater contribution for the devel-opment of the Islamic Inst Hute of Technology (I IT) located at Gazlpur.

Hasina will call on Amir of Sheikh Hamad Bln Khalifa

Thani and is also expected to have letc^teies with heads of *>me other member -stales on the •Mellneof the QIC Summit