Ishaq Dar Attends OIC Meeting in Saudi Arabia to Support Palestinian Cause

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has traveled to Saudi Arabia for the OIC foreign ministers’ meeting to discuss the Middle East situation, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and to set the agenda for the upcoming Arab-Islamic Summit. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will also participate, reinforcing Pakistan’s support for Palestine and regional stability.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar departed for Saudi Arabia on Saturday to attend the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers’ meeting, which will be held in Riyadh on Sunday. This significant meeting is aimed at establishing the agenda for the forthcoming second Arab-Islamic Summit set for Monday. Upon his arrival, Minister Dar performed Umrah and engaged in prayers at the revered Masjid-i-Nabwi. Minister Dar represents the Pakistani delegation, which will also be led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who is scheduled to arrive in Riyadh today. The meeting is expected to gather various leaders, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, as confirmed by Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar. The discussions will center on pressing issues in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing hostilities in Palestine as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The summit is poised to advance conversations initiated during the first Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit held earlier in 2023, which sought to address the devastating situation in Gaza. Key outcomes from last year’s summit included urgent relief initiatives for Gaza’s citizens, global appeals to cease the Israeli occupation, and a collective vow among member states to support the Palestinian cause. During this crucial gathering, Prime Minister Sharif is expected to emphasize Pakistan’s resolute call for an immediate and unconditional halt to the suffering of the Gazan populace and to the aggressive military actions of Israel, which are deemed to destabilize the region. In the words of FO Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, “Pakistan stands united with the people of Palestine in their struggle for sovereignty.” The Prime Minister’s commitment includes advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestine based on the borders of June 4, 1967, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. Additionally, he is anticipated to engage in bilateral discussions with leaders from both the Arab League and OIC member states, thereby enhancing diplomatic relationships and cooperation.

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) plays a pivotal role in addressing political and social issues of its member states, particularly concerning situations that impact Muslims worldwide. The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a central focus for the OIC and its members, necessitating regular summits and dialogues to formulate collective actions and responses. These meetings afford member countries, such as Pakistan, an opportunity to affirm their support for Palestine and foster international collaboration towards resolving longstanding grievances and humanitarian crises affecting the Palestinian population. Furthermore, leaders gather to ensure that the principles of solidarity and cooperation outlined in the OIC charter are championed effectively.

In summary, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s visit to Saudi Arabia for the OIC meeting underscores Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to the Palestinian cause and regional stability. The summit aims to address critical issues in the Middle East, notably the aggression against Palestine, while also promoting diplomatic engagement among member states. Pakistan’s firm stance on these matters suggests a continued dedication to advocating for human rights and sovereignty for the Palestinian people as part of a unified Islamic effort.

Original Source: www.dawn.com