Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to Riyadh marks a significant diplomatic engagement as he participates in the Arab-Islamic Summit focused on the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The summit, convened by Saudi Arabia, gathers leaders from the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to discuss urgent actions in response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Saudi Arabia’s leadership has been instrumental in rallying Islamic nations to collectively address the escalating violence and civilian suffering in Gaza. This summit signifies the region’s unified stance on Palestinian rights and condemnation of recent escalations. The Arab-Islamic Summit aims to not only support Palestine’s sovereignty but also strengthen regional solidarity in advocating for peaceful resolutions.
Representing Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestine. His attendance highlights Pakistan’s solidarity with Palestine, particularly in calling for an end to the humanitarian crisis. Accompanying him is Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, reflecting the country’s strong political commitment to supporting Palestinian rights. The Pakistani delegation is expected to present proposals for easing humanitarian aid access to Gaza and advocate for a ceasefire.
Pakistan’s diplomatic stance aligns closely with the Arab League’s commitment to de-escalating violence in Gaza, which continues to be a focal point of conflict in the Middle East. Pakistan has consistently condemned what it sees as the disproportionate use of force in Gaza and has raised concerns over the significant civilian casualties and infrastructural damage. This summit provides a platform for Pakistan to collaborate with like-minded nations in calling for accountability and a collective stance on safeguarding Palestinian lives.
The summit’s agenda is focused on unified calls for an immediate ceasefire, facilitating humanitarian corridors, and ensuring access to essential supplies for Gazan residents. Leaders are also expected to outline actionable steps to support the diplomatic efforts of the United Nations and other international bodies. Prime Minister Sharif’s attendance aligns with Pakistan’s broader international diplomacy goals, as he engages in dialogues with regional leaders to reinforce Pakistan’s position on Palestine. Additionally, he is anticipated to engage in discussions that strengthen bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia and other OIC members, furthering Pakistan’s broader foreign policy objectives in the Gulf region.
The Arab-Islamic Summit underscores Saudi Arabia’s leadership in promoting a unified regional response to conflicts that threaten Middle Eastern stability. As a committed ally to Palestine, Pakistan’s active participation reinforces its dedication to humanitarian principles and international cooperation. The outcomes of this summit could potentially shape future diplomatic engagements on the Gaza crisis and influence Pakistan’s collaborative efforts within the OIC framework to address regional humanitarian issues.