Pakistan's Foreign Minister to Attend OIC Session, Reiterate Support for Palestine

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar will embark on an official visit to Saudi Arabia to participate in the Extraordinary Session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM). This comes in response to the escalating Israeli military aggression in Gaza, which has prompted the OIC to convene a high-level meeting to address the situation. Dar's attendance underscores Pakistan's commitment to supporting the Palestinian people and demands an end to Israeli military control over the enclave.

Key Takeaways:

  • Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar will represent Pakistan at the OIC-CFM session in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from August 25-26.
  • The session has been convened in response to Israeli military aggression in Gaza, including reported plans to extend full military control over the enclave and continued violations of Palestinian rights.
  • Pakistan has consistently highlighted the Palestinian issue at international fora and remains a steadfast advocate for Palestinian rights, with Dar reaffirming support for Palestine and demanding Israel's complete withdrawal from occupied territories.
  • The OIC has repeatedly condemned Israeli actions in Gaza, particularly following the devastating humanitarian crisis triggered by intensified bombings and blockade measures.
  • Pakistan, as a founding member of the OIC, has historically aligned itself with calls for an international response to stop Israeli aggression and ensure Palestinian statehood.
  • On the sidelines of the OIC-CFM session, Dar will hold bilateral meetings with counterparts from key OIC member states to discuss regional issues and strengthen cooperation.

Statistics:

  • 57 Muslim-majority countries are part of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
  • Pakistan is a founding member of the OIC.
  • The OIC has repeatedly condemned Israeli actions in Gaza, with over [X] statements released since 2020 criticizing Israeli policies in the region.

Sources:

  • [Press Release] Foreign Office [exact source text on file]
  • [Statement] Foreign Office Spokesperson [exact source text on file]
  • [News Article] Dawn [exact source text on file]