Pakistan backs all initiatives for peace and stability in the Middle East: Dar

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar attended the High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France in New York. Ishaq Dar welcomed the recognition of the State of Palestine by France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Portugal, and others, and urged countries that have not yet recognized Palestine to take similar steps in line with their commitments to international law. Pakistan actively participated in the conference, reiterating its long-standing principled position on the Question of Palestine. Dar emphasized the deep affinity of the people of Pakistan for their Muslim brethren in the Middle East and affirmed support for all constructive efforts aimed at fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and beyond. He also took part in consultations hosted by Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in New York on Monday. Other participants included the deputy prime ministers of Jordan and the UAE, and foreign ministers of Egypt, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye, the Foreign Ministry said in a press release from Islamabad. The ministers exchanged views and coordinated positions for a unified approach on key issues during the UN General Assembly session. Dar highlighted the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and Islamic countries. Commonwealth meeting DPM Dar also participated in the Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting (CFAMM) at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters. The gathering was organised on the sidelines of the 80th UNGA session. In his remarks, Ishaq Dar reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Commonwealth and commitment to playing its part in strengthening this unique family of nations. He welcomed efforts to reorient the organisation for responding effectively to the evolving global context, ensuring its continued ability to deliver tangible benefits to all its members. Recalling the multiple and overlapping crises confronted by the international community, Dar underscored that the Commonwealth must continue to serve as a platform for peace-building and dialogue, where consensus and cooperation can help resolve disputes and promote understanding. He strongly supported the Commonwealth’s work on climate action and called for sustained focus on helping member states build climate resilience. Dar commended the Commonwealth’s unique role in bringing together 56 diverse members for the advancement of youth empowerment, digital transformation and enhancement of trade and entrepreneurship. “Pakistan was proud to lead on the Commonwealth youth agenda, ensuring that our young people are empowered to shape a more prosperous and peaceful future. Pakistan would also remain at the forefront of advancing the Commonwealth Connectivity Agenda by championing initiatives that strengthen digital, physical, regulatory and supply chain links across the Commonwealth,” he said. Dar, Canadian FM take up bilateral ties Ishaq Dar met with Foreign Minister of Canada Anita Anand on the sidelines of 80th United Nations General Assembly session in New York. They acknowledged the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Canada relations, agreed to further strengthen economic and trade ties and recognized the vital role of the Pakistani diaspora in Canada.