Pakistan Committed to Strengthening Ties with North African Nations

Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar affirmed Pakistan’s dedication to bolstering relationships with North African countries such as Algeria and Egypt. This commitment involves improving connections and broadening cooperation across various sectors.

The deputy premier commented during a productive meeting with his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, and the Algerian FM, Ahmed Attaf. The meeting occurred during the 21st extraordinary session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

During the session, the officials addressed the critical situation in Palestine, emphasizing the vital requirement for humanitarian aid, a cessation of hostilities, and a sustained resolution. The Foreign Ministers highlighted the significance of solidarity within the Muslim Ummah during these difficult times.

Dar arrived in Jeddah for a two-day official visit. While there, he addressed Israel’s continued attacks on Gaza during the 21st extraordinary session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers.

On Monday, DPM Dar repeated Pakistan’s firm condemnation of Israel’s escalating statements regarding Palestinian territories.

He stated that the blatant audacity of the Israeli cabinet, in revealing its plan to extend Israel’s military control over Gaza, and the Israeli prime minister’s reference to creating a “Greater Israel”, expose Israel’s annexationist mentality.

In his address at the 21st Extraordinary Session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) in Jeddah, DPM Dar reiterated Pakistan’s appeal for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

He advocated for the delivery of humanitarian aid, an end to forced displacement, the cessation of illegal settlement expansion and annexation of Palestinian territories, accountability for war crimes, and the enforcement of international and humanitarian laws.

He noted that the meeting was reconvened as Gaza suffers under international law violations, including humanitarian law, UN Security Council resolutions, and the ICJ judgment.

He further stated that Israel commits these acts with impunity.

“Gaza has turned into a graveyard for innocent lives and international law, particularly International Humanitarian Law (IHL). More than 60,000 Palestinians, mainly women and children, have died in Israel’s violent military operations,” he added.

He noted that the intentional targeting of hospitals, schools, UN facilities, aid convoys, and refugee camps represents collective punishment carried out openly.

“Gaza is facing a complete humanitarian crisis. For nearly two years, it has endured indiscriminate attacks, a total blockade, and intentional deprivation, while violence escalates in the West Bank and Jerusalem,” he stated.

Dar asserted that the humanitarian system established by the occupying power is a fallacy, adding: “Famine is widespread. Civilians are being shot while trying to obtain food. The hunger crisis in Gaza has reached unprecedented and alarming levels.”