Pakistan, Syria pledge stronger ties in Islamabad talks

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and Syria yesterday reaffirmed their longstanding brotherly ties and agreed to further expand bilateral cooperation during high-level delegation discussions in Islamabad The two sides additionally discussing key regional and international developments, including Palestine, the Golan Heights, Afghanistan, South Asia.

Key points

• Al-Shaibani additionally commended Pakistan's diplomatic efforts towards de-escalation in the context of tensions between the United States and Iran, according to the Foreign Office.
• Power sharing accord falls apart as Siddique 'manoeuvres' to retain Lahore Gymkhana chairmanship.
• The discussions additionally highlighted Pakistan's broader diplomatic engagement on regional peace and stability.
• Both sides agreed to remain engaged and work towards strengthening bilateral cooperation and promoting shared objectives of peace and stability.
• The discussions provided an opportunity for the two sides to review their bilateral relationship as well as coordinate positions on major regional and international matters.

Regional security and geopolitical developments additionally featured prominently in the discussions. The two sides exchanged views on the situation in Palestine, the status of the Golan Heights, developments in Afghanistan, the situation in South Asia and the broader political and security environment in the Middle East. Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan's backing for Syria's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, reiterating Islamabad's commitment to an independent, stable and united Syria.

For context, the discussions additionally highlighted Pakistan's broader diplomatic engagement on regional peace and stability. The Syrian foreign minister welcomed the signing of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement and appreciated Pakistan's constructive role in efforts aimed at promoting regional peace and stability. President Zardari felicitates Mirza Fakhrul Islam on election as Bangladesh President.

Al-Shaibani additionally commended Pakistan's diplomatic efforts towards de-escalation in the context of tensions between the United States and Iran, according to the Foreign Office. The exchange underscored the growing importance attached by both sides to diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions throughout the Middle East and surrounding regions. Pakistan and Syria additionally reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining continued engagement and cooperation in pursuit of peace, stability and prosperity in the region and beyond. Punjab to hold local body polls between Dec 15 and Jan 15: ECP.

In practice, the discussions provided an opportunity for the two sides to review their bilateral relationship as well as coordinate positions on major regional and international matters.

While reaffirming its backing for sovereignty, territorial integrity and peaceful resolution of disputes, the high-level engagement came as Islamabad continued its diplomatic outreach on regional conflicts and security challenges. Both sides agreed to remain engaged and work towards strengthening bilateral cooperation and promoting shared objectives of peace and stability. The Syrian foreign minister's visit and his discussions with Pakistan's deputy prime minister and foreign minister are anticipated to provide further momentum to bilateral relations and sustained political consultations between Islamabad and Damascus. Over 21, 900 Pakistanis deported from Gulf countries since March, NA informed.

Taken together, the developments around pakistan, Syria pledge stronger ties in Islamabad talks point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.