Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is set to embark on a significant three-day official visit to Saudi Arabia starting Thursday. The primary purpose of this trip is to participate in the Open-Ended Extraordinary Ministerial Session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Executive Committee, which will be held in Jeddah. This high-level gathering has been convened to deliberate on pressing issues concerning the Occupied West Bank, particularly focusing on the recent illegal actions undertaken by Israeli authorities.
The session aims to address the ongoing expansion of Israeli settlements, a move widely condemned by the international community as a violation of international law. These settlements are part of a broader strategy by Israel to annex parts of the West Bank and assert sovereignty over territories that remain disputed. The meeting will provide a platform for member states to discuss coordinated responses and strategies to counter these unilateral measures.
During the ministerial session, Ishaq Dar will articulate Pakistan’s firm stance against the Israeli occupation’s attempts to reclassify areas of the Occupied West Bank as “state land,” a tactic that facilitates further settlement construction and displacement of Palestinian residents. Pakistan has consistently supported the Palestinian cause and advocates for a peaceful resolution based on international consensus and respect for Palestinian rights.
In addition to his participation in the plenary discussions, Deputy Prime Minister Dar is expected to engage in a series of bilateral meetings with foreign ministers from other OIC member countries. These side meetings will provide an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic ties, discuss regional security concerns, and explore collaborative efforts to promote peace and stability in the Muslim world.
Moreover, during his stay in Saudi Arabia, Ishaq Dar will make brief visits to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. These visits are not only of spiritual significance but also reinforce the close religious and cultural bonds between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The trip underscores Pakistan’s commitment to active engagement in multilateral forums addressing critical regional issues, while also nurturing its longstanding relationship with Saudi Arabia.
