Islamabad: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt have convened to explore methods to bring a timely and permanent resolution to the ongoing war in the region. This joint initiative was highlighted by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar in a televised statement following the quadrilateral meeting of the Foreign Ministers held in Islamabad.
According to Radio Pakistan, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized that the Foreign Ministers expressed shared concern over the protracted conflict, citing its detrimental impact on lives and livelihoods across the region. The ministers acknowledged that the continuation of the war benefits none and only results in further devastation. They underscored the importance of unity among the Muslim Ummah during these challenging times.
The Foreign Ministers collectively reaffirmed their commitment to contain the situation, minimize the potential for military escalation, and foster conditions conducive to structured negotiations between the involved parties. Dar provided insights into the detailed and comprehensive discussions on the current regional dynamics.
During the meeting, the potential for US-Iran talks in Islamabad was also addressed, with the visiting Foreign Ministers showing full support for the initiative. The ministers advocated for dialogue and diplomacy as the sole feasible approach to avert conflicts and promote regional peace and harmony. They called for adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, particularly the respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.
The discussions also extended to enhancing mutual cooperation among the four nations. A decision was made to form a committee comprising senior officials from the respective Ministries of Foreign Affairs to outline the modalities through mutual understanding and consensus.
Expressing gratitude, Ishaq Dar acknowledged the support of Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt for Pakistan's peace efforts. He highlighted Pakistan's consistent engagement with regional and international partners under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's leadership. Pakistan has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at ending the conflict.
Dar also mentioned Pakistan's important relationship with the United States, noting active engagement with US leadership to de-escalate the situation and pursue a peaceful resolution. He expressed satisfaction that both Iran and the US have shown confidence in Pakistan to facilitate discussions.
Pakistan is poised to host and facilitate meaningful talks between Iran and the US in the coming days to achieve a comprehensive and lasting settlement of the conflict. Dar shared details of his telephonic conversation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who fully supports Pakistan's initiative, and with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who has also expressed full support for Pakistan's peace efforts.
The Deputy Prime Minister conveyed that counterparts from various countries worldwide have extended support and confidence in Pakistan's peace endeavors. He concluded by emphasizing the need for prayers and support from the entire international community to ensure the success of efforts to achieve peace and permanently end the war.