JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia: The Organization of the Islamic Conference, OIC, has made a fervent appeal to all Muslim countries, peoples, governments and organizations to declare this year (June 5, 2007 to June 5, 2008) the year of Al-Qods and Palestine.

Jeddah-based organization that groups 57 Muslims countries was established following the burning of Al Aqsa Mosque and one of its proclaimed objectives is to save Al-Qods and the holy mosque.

In a statement issued here, the OIC General Secretariat urged Muslims to utilize all capabilities and events to revive the spirits for the cause of the holy city, using all media and publicity outlets available at the international level.

"This year should be an occasion to agree on an Islamic Pact to advocate the cause of Al-Qods in a practical manner through countering Israel`s attempts to judaize the city on one hand, and, on the other, launching concrete initiatives to create an impact and change the status quo to ensure the respect of the historical and demographic character of this city," said the statement.