In a pivotal diplomatic move, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is set to spearhead the Pakistani delegation at the 15th Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Summit, slated to convene in Banjul, Gambia, on May 4-5. The Foreign Office’s recent press release announced Dar’s pivotal role in addressing critical issues facing the Muslim Ummah.
With the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers’ Meeting preceding the summit on May 2-3, ministers will deliberate and finalize the agenda and outcome documents, setting the stage for impactful discussions at the summit. Against the backdrop of persistent conflict in Gaza, the summit offers a crucial platform for OIC leaders to address the dire situation and forge a unified stance on the Palestinian question.
Highlighting Pakistan’s stance, the press release indicates that Dar will articulate the nation’s perspective on various global challenges, including the ongoing genocide in Gaza, the right to self-determination for the people of Jammu & Kashmir, and the imperative of solidarity and unity within the Muslim Ummah. Moreover, he will advocate for collective solutions to combat rising Islamophobia, tackle climate change, counter terrorism, and address other contemporary global issues.
In addition to his participation in the summit sessions, Dar will engage in bilateral meetings with leaders and foreign ministers on the sidelines, fostering dialogue and cooperation to address shared challenges effectively.
The Pakistani delegation’s presence, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, underscores Pakistan’s commitment to constructive engagement within the OIC and its steadfast support for the collective interests of the Muslim Ummah. As the summit unfolds, eyes turn to Banjul, where pivotal discussions are poised to shape the future trajectory of Islamic cooperation and solidarity on the global stage.