R4 meeting expresses solidarity with Saudi Arabia, condemns Houthi attacks

ISLAMABAD: The R4 countries, comprising Pakistan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia against the Houthi attack. They reaffirmed support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity and condemned the attacks.

According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, the sixth R4 meeting of the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt was held in Istanbul. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar attended the meeting. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr Badr Abdelatty also took part.

The foreign ministers of the four countries reviewed regional developments since the previous meeting in New York. Special attention was given to the situation in the Middle East, the related security challenges and conflicts.

According to the statement, the meeting stressed the importance of respecting the sovereignty of all countries. It discussed ways to strengthen regional connectivity and advance diplomatic efforts. The four countries agreed to continue diplomatic efforts to promote lasting peace, security and stability.

E4 meeting

Alongside the R4 meeting in Istanbul, a meeting of the foreign ministers of the E4 countries, comprising France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom, was also held. Ishaq Dar attended it. According to the spokesperson, the meeting discussed the social and economic impact of the situation in the Gulf. It stressed the need to urgently step up diplomatic efforts to resolve the challenge to the region’s peace, security and stability.

Ishaq Dar told his counterparts that Pakistan was playing a diplomatic and mediation role to reduce tension, check growing unrest and promote peace. The foreign ministers of the participating countries agreed to stay in contact on the matter.

Ishaq Dar also met German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in Istanbul. The meeting discussed Pakistan-Germany bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest. He expressed the wish to strengthen relations further through regular contacts and cooperation in various fields.

The two leaders also spoke about the latest regional and global developments. They stressed the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and international engagement.

Ishaq Dar welcomed the constructive engagement of Germany, France, Italy and the United Kingdom with the R4 framework. He stressed the importance of continued consultation and diplomatic engagement on matters of concern.