RIYADH (MNN); Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday to attend a key consultative meeting of foreign ministers from Arab and Islamic countries, where he is expected to urge a swift end to the ongoing Middle East conflict, the Foreign Office (FO) said.
The conflict erupted following joint strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28, prompting Tehran to retaliate by targeting US assets and military bases across Gulf nations. Amid rising tensions, Pakistan has positioned itself as a “bridge builder” seeking diplomatic solutions.
According to the FO, Dar is participating in the Consultative Ministerial Meeting hosted by Saudi Arabia. Upon arrival, he was received by Pakistan’s Ambassador Ahmed Farooq and Saudi officials.
The FO stated that Dar is visiting at the invitation of Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and will attend discussions from March 18 to 19. During the meeting, he will reaffirm Pakistan’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of regional states and call for an end to all attacks.
Dar is also expected to reiterate Pakistan’s demand for an immediate cessation of hostilities and emphasize the need for dialogue and diplomacy. He will highlight Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic engagements and its commitment to playing a constructive role in resolving the worsening regional security crisis.
Meanwhile, Hakan Fidan is also attending the Riyadh meeting to discuss evolving regional dynamics.
This marks Pakistan’s third high-level visit to Saudi Arabia amid escalating tensions. Earlier, on March 7, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir met Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman Al Saud to discuss Iran’s attacks.
Later, on March 12, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a restricted meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, expressing Pakistan’s full solidarity with the Kingdom and a shared commitment to regional peace.
Saudi Arabia has been among the countries targeted during Iran’s retaliatory campaign. Pakistani leadership, including Dar and the prime minister, has maintained continuous diplomatic contact with regional leaders, calling for de-escalation.
Separately, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently thanked Pakistan for its strong support and solidarity with Iran amid what he described as aggression by the US and Israel.
