Istanbul: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, met with President of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in Istanbul today on the sidelines of the 51st session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Council of Foreign Ministers. Accompanied by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Dar communicated the greetings of Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif to the Turkish President and highlighted the importance of Pakistan-Türkiye relations.

During the meeting, both leaders expressed their commitment to strengthening the bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Türkiye. They addressed various regional issues, emphasizing a unified stance against the ongoing Israeli attacks, which they deemed violations of international law.

The leaders reiterated their support for Iran’s sovereignty and its right to self-defense as outlined in the United Nations Charter. They also agreed to pursue diplomatic avenues to de-escalate tensions and urged global actors to contribute to restoring peace and stability in the region.

The discussions underscored the necessity of halting Israeli aggression in Gaza and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid to its citizens. The Deputy Prime Minister congratulated President Erdogan on receiving an award from the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum, acknowledging his leadership and the successful hosting of the OIC CFM session.

This meeting signifies a continued effort by both nations to enhance their longstanding relationship amidst complex geopolitical challenges.