ABSTRACT
As a contribution to the discussion of different aspects of Africa–Asia relations over time in this volume, the present chapter aims to highlight the role of Islam in forging linkages between Africa and Asia. Taking as a point of departure that Islam’s bridging role has taken on different forms at different times and is constantly evolving, I will analyse a particular form of Islamic ‘bridging’ that emerged in the 1970s, namely Islamic humanitarianism, relief, and development support. The specific ways in which Islamic relief has nourished African-Asian relations will be discussed as well as its consequences and prospects.
