![A general view is seen during Organisation of Islamic Cooperation's (OIC) Emergency Open-Ended Executive Committee Ministerial Meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 3 February 2020 [Fatih Aktaş/Anadolu Agency]](https://i0.wp.com/d2.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/OIC20200203_2_40651415_51781623.jpg?fit=920%2C613&ssl=1)
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) urged member states on Wednesday to help struggling Muslim states combat the coronavirus pandemic, particularly in Africa, Reuters reports.
The 57-member group’s executive committee, after a virtual meeting, also called on member countries to help bridge a shortfall in essential medical supplies, particularly testing devices and protective equipment.
“No country alone can deal with the damage and multiple challenges presented by the novel coronavirus,” said a statement. “We call on all member countries and organisations to show their solidarity with African member states.”
The Jeddah-based OIC also echoed a U.N. call for a ceasefire in conflict areas to allow delivery of aid, specifically mentioning Yemen, which has so far reported only one case of the virus but where a five-year war has shattered the health system and left millions vulnerable to disease.
READ: Lebanon confirms first coronavirus case in Palestine refugee camp