Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi has praised Pakistan’s mediation efforts to reduce regional tensions as the 52nd Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting opened in Baghdad on Saturday. The meeting brings together representatives of Muslim countries to discuss regional security, political challenges and diplomatic efforts to promote stability.
Al-Zaidi inaugurated the meeting in the Iraqi capital and highlighted the challenges facing the Islamic world. He said Muslim countries needed to strengthen joint efforts to address regional and international crises. His remarks emphasised cooperation and dialogue as important tools for managing growing tensions.
The Iraqi prime minister also stressed that Palestinians must receive justice and their rights. He said addressing the Palestinian issue remained important for achieving regional peace and stability. The matter is among the broader concerns facing OIC member states as they discuss developments across the Middle East.
The foreign ministers’ meeting is expected to focus on regional peace and security, rising tensions and challenges affecting Muslim countries. Participants will discuss ways to strengthen cooperation, address regional conflicts and support diplomatic initiatives aimed at preventing further escalation.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar will not attend the meeting. According to an official, his domestic engagements and other important commitments prevented him from participating. Pakistan will instead be represented by Fouad Sher, the country’s permanent representative to the OIC in Jeddah.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has arrived in Baghdad to attend the gathering. Officials from Türkiye, Egypt and other Muslim countries are also participating. Their presence reflects the meeting’s wider diplomatic importance as regional governments seek ways to respond to security concerns and ongoing political disputes.
The Pakistan mediation efforts praised by Iraq come amid heightened regional tensions. The meeting provides an opportunity for member states to discuss diplomatic solutions, improve coordination and encourage dialogue between parties involved in regional disputes. The discussions are expected to address shared challenges and explore practical ways to support peace and stability across the Islamic world.
