Pakistan and Egypt have jointly emphasized the importance of de-escalation and diplomatic efforts to address the increasing tensions in the Middle East. Both nations reaffirmed their opposition to violence targeting civilians in Palestine and condemned illegal settlement activities in the occupied West Bank.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with his Egyptian counterpart, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila on Wednesday. During a dinner hosted by the Egyptian minister ahead of the ASEAN Regional Forum 2026, the two leaders exchanged perspectives on recent developments in Palestine, reiterating their firm stance against violence and unlawful settlements in the West Bank.
In addition to discussing the regional security situation, the ministers reviewed bilateral relations, exploring opportunities to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, and economic collaboration. They committed to expanding their partnership and maintaining close coordination on issues of mutual concern.
Addressing the broader Middle East context, both sides highlighted the critical need for dialogue and de-escalation, stressing respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states in the region. They also examined the repercussions of regional instability on global maritime trade, energy security, and the wider world economy—issues that have grown increasingly urgent amid ongoing tensions.
The discussions included a review of the latest Regional Four consultations held in Cairo, where both countries reaffirmed their dedication to fostering peace, stability, and regional cooperation.
Separately, Ishaq Dar held meetings with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn during the forum. In his talks with Herath, both sides welcomed the positive progress in bilateral relations, particularly in trade and economic cooperation, and agreed to enhance collaboration in connectivity, defense, and cultural exchanges. They expressed optimism that recent regional tensions would be resolved through peaceful dialogue and diplomacy.
Dar’s meeting with the ASEAN Secretary-General focused on strengthening Pakistan’s engagement with the regional bloc by boosting cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, and people-to-people ties. The ASEAN chief acknowledged Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting dialogue and de-escalation amid recent developments, with both parties agreeing to maintain close collaboration to advance shared interests.
