NEW YORK — The foreign ministers of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Egypt held a consultative meeting in New York on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly.
The ministers reviewed recent regional and international developments. They also stressed the need for continued coordination to support peace, security, stability and prosperity across the Middle East and the wider region.
Four Countries Call for Dialogue and Diplomacy
The ministers expressed deep concern over continuing tensions and hostilities in the region.
They said dialogue and diplomacy remain essential for achieving lasting solutions. They also stressed the need to uphold the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding to support lasting peace and stability.
The four countries also agreed to maintain close consultations on regional and international developments. Their aim is to strengthen collective security and support long-term regional stability.
Support for Saudi Arabia
The ministers strongly condemned attacks against Saudi Arabia, including recent Houthi attacks.
They reaffirmed their support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and security. They also affirmed Saudi Arabia’s right to defend itself, its territory and its people under international law and the UN Charter.
In addition, the ministers stressed the importance of safe and free maritime navigation.
Call for Political Process in Yemen
The four foreign ministers also reaffirmed their support for Yemen’s legitimate government and the Presidential Leadership Council.
They called for continued efforts toward security, stability and development in Yemen through a political process. They also backed an inclusive Yemeni dialogue involving different parties.
The ministers stressed that diplomatic efforts remain important as fighting continues in the region.
Ministers Reaffirm Support for Palestine
The ministers also reaffirmed the central importance of the Palestinian issue to peace and stability in the Middle East.
They reiterated support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. They also backed the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Four Countries Discuss Sudan
The ministers reaffirmed their support for Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, independence and territorial integrity.
They also stressed the importance of protecting Sudan’s legitimate national institutions. Furthermore, they rejected parallel institutions or structures that could undermine Sudan’s unity and sovereignty.
The ministers called for an end to the illegal flow of weapons, mercenaries and foreign fighters into Sudan.
Ishaq Dar Meets Kuwait Foreign Minister
Separately, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met Kuwait’s Foreign Minister during the UN General Assembly week in New York.
The two sides reviewed Pakistan-Kuwait relations and welcomed continued high-level contacts between the two countries.
They also discussed bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest. In addition, the ministers exchanged views on regional and international issues, including developments in the Middle East.
Both sides stressed the importance of continued dialogue and diplomacy to promote peace and stability.