Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Attends OIC Meeting in Saudi Arabia
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has traveled to Saudi Arabia to attend the OIC foreign ministers’ meeting aimed at addressing the situation in Palestine and setting the agenda for the upcoming Arab-Islamic Summit. The meeting will focus on regional stability and support for Gaza, reflecting Pakistan’s stance on the matter.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar departed to Saudi Arabia on Saturday to participate in a meeting with fellow foreign ministers from the Islamic world. This gathering of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is scheduled to occur in Riyadh today, as it lays the groundwork for the forthcoming second Arab-Islamic Summit on Monday. Upon arrival, FM Dar performed Umrah and prayed at the Masjid-i-Nabwi, joining the Pakistani delegation led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the summit. Prime Minister Sharif is also heading to Riyadh to engage in this important dialogue. The meeting will address critical issues concerning the Middle East landscape, particularly the ongoing Israeli aggression towards Palestine, as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This summit is poised to build upon the topics discussed during the first Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit in 2023 that focused on the plight of Gaza. Outcomes from the previous summit had included significant emergency aid for Gazans, calls for the cessation of Israeli occupation, and collective pledges of support for the Palestinian cause. In this context, PM Sharif is expected to reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to ending the suffering in Gaza. The Foreign Office Spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, indicated earlier this week that “Pakistan stands united with the people of Palestine in their struggle for sovereignty.” Furthermore, the Prime Minister is anticipated to hold bilateral discussions with leaders from the Arab League and member states of the OIC during his visit.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) serves as a vital platform for dialogue and cooperation among member states regarding pressures and policies affecting the Muslim world. The upcoming meeting is aimed at addressing pressing issues in the Middle East, notably the ongoing conflict in Gaza which has significant humanitarian implications. This forum often generates collective action in the face of adversity faced by member states, primarily regarding the Palestinian cause. Past summits have resulted in critical commitments to humanitarian efforts and diplomatic initiatives to foster peace and stability in the region.
In conclusion, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s visit to Saudi Arabia underscores Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestine amidst escalating tensions in the region. The OIC foreign ministers’ meeting allows for a broader dialogue while preparing for a summit that aims to strengthen commitments to humanitarian relief and political solutions. As highlighted by PM Sharif, Pakistan remains dedicated to advocating for the Palestinian struggle for sovereignty, reinforcing its position on the international stage.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
