Ishaq Dar, Egyptian FM discuss Middle East; call for deescalation and diplomacy

Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar met with Egypt’s Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdelatty, during which the regional situation was discussed.

According to a statement issued by the Foreign Office spokesperson, the Deputy Prime Minister warmly welcomed the Egyptian Foreign Minister upon his arrival at the Foreign Office and stated that Pakistan attaches great importance to its long-standing, brotherly relations with Egypt, which are based on shared history, religion, and alignment on regional and global issues.

The spokesperson said that both sides conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction over recent high-level engagements, including the positive outcomes of the Egyptian Foreign Minister’s visit to Pakistan in November 2025. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation across all sectors.

During the meeting, both ministers emphasized the need to enhance bilateral trade and investment. They agreed on the importance of activating bilateral mechanisms, strengthening the Joint Ministerial Commission, and promoting links between business communities.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar appreciated Egypt’s continued support in the health sector, particularly in combating Hepatitis C, and described this cooperation as encouraging.

Both sides also expressed satisfaction over the positive progress in cooperation in the fields of defense and security. They agreed to further strengthen collaboration through training exchanges and other institutional mechanisms.

The two sides exchanged views on regional and international developments, particularly the situation in the Middle East. They stressed the importance of restraint, de-escalation, and resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people and strongly condemned the ongoing aggression by Israeli occupying forces in Gaza and the West Bank. He also appreciated Egypt’s role in facilitating humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.

Both sides agreed to continue close cooperation at multilateral forums, including the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment to further strengthening the close and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Egypt and expanding cooperation across all areas of mutual interest.

The visit of the Egyptian Foreign Minister is part of ongoing high-level engagements between the two countries, including meetings held in Riyadh on March 19, 2026. It reflects close coordination between Pakistan and Egypt in the context of the evolving regional situation.