Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has traveled to Saudi Arabia for the OIC foreign ministers’ meeting aimed at addressing middle eastern issues, particularly the situation in Palestine. This meeting will set the groundwork for the Arab-Islamic Summit and involves critical discussions surrounding ongoing Israeli aggressions. Prime Minister Sharif will lead the Pakistani delegation and emphasize Islamabad’s enduring support for Palestine’s sovereignty and rights.
On Saturday, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar departed for Saudi Arabia to participate in a pivotal meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers in Riyadh. This meeting is crucial as it will outline the agenda for the upcoming second Arab-Islamic Summit scheduled for the following day. Upon his arrival, FM Dar performed Umrah and prayed at the revered Masjid-i-Nabwi, showcasing his commitment to religious traditions. FM Dar is part of the delegation led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who will also be traveling to Riyadh for the summit. The meeting is expected to feature significant discussions regarding ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly focusing on the situation in Palestine under the ongoing Israeli aggression. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlights that the summit will build on previous resolutions made during the first Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit held in 2023, which aimed at addressing crises in Gaza. Last year’s summit resulted in vital humanitarian aid for Gaza and a firm international commitment to end the Israeli occupation, demonstrating the collective resolve of member states in supporting Palestinian rights. Prime Minister Sharif is anticipated to emphasize Pakistan’s position advocating for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, aligning with the nation’s enduring support for Palestine’s sovereignty. The Foreign Office Spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, reaffirmed that “Pakistan stands united with the people of Palestine in their struggle for sovereignty.” Moreover, Prime Minister Sharif is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with fellow leaders from the Arab League and OIC member states, further fostering diplomatic avenues and cooperation among the nations.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) serves as a platform to coordinate efforts among its member states on issues that affect the Muslim world. The foreign ministers’ meeting is pivotal in setting the course for the Arab-Islamic Summit, particularly concerning urgent matters in the Middle East, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The OIC’s previous extraordinary summit in 2023 addressed the dire situation in Gaza, leading to international calls for humanitarian assistance and political action. These discussions reflect the ongoing commitment of Islamic nations to support Palestinian rights and assert the need for a peaceful resolution based on historical borders and recognized sovereignty.
In summary, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s participation in the OIC foreign ministers’ meeting in Saudi Arabia signifies Pakistan’s active involvement in addressing pressing issues affecting the Muslim world, particularly the plight of Palestine. As the summit approaches, the discussions are likely to set significant precedents for future actions aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region, with a united stand against aggression and a call for humanitarian support.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
