Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and European powers agree to continued talks on Gulf security
By The South Asia Times
ISTANBUL - Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and four European countries agreed to maintain diplomatic engagement to address regional security challenges during their first joint ministerial meeting in Istanbul on Friday, as concerns over tensions in the Gulf and their economic and social consequences remain high.
The meeting brought together the foreign ministers of the R4 group -- Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, alongside Pakistan -- and their counterparts from France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said.
The ministers exchanged views on developments in the Gulf region, focusing on their social and economic impacts and the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to address challenges to regional peace, security and stability.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefed the participants on Islamabad’s ongoing diplomatic and mediation efforts to de-escalate tensions, prevent a resumption of hostilities and promote peace.
The ministers agreed to continue engagement in the new diplomatic format, although Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry did not announce any specific joint initiative, agreement or action plan following the meeting.
The gathering brought together regional powers and major European countries in a broader effort to discuss shared security concerns and explore diplomatic approaches to regional challenges.
The meeting followed separate R4 discussions involving Pakistan, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, during which the four countries reviewed developments in the Middle East and condemned Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia.
The expanded format provides an additional channel for dialogue between regional countries and European powers as they seek to address instability in the Gulf and its wider implications.
Pakistan has highlighted its diplomatic role in efforts to reduce tensions and prevent renewed hostilities, presenting dialogue and mediation as key tools for achieving regional stability.
The participating ministers' decision to continue meeting signals their willingness to maintain consultations.
