Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and four European countries have called for urgent diplomatic efforts to resolve regional conflicts. The foreign ministers of the eight nations met in Istanbul and stressed the importance of dialogue, negotiations and de-escalation. According to their joint statement, the countries agreed that lasting solutions were necessary to promote peace and regional stability.
The four Muslim-majority countries, collectively referred to as R4, joined France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom in the discussions. Their meeting focused on ongoing conflicts and their wider security, economic and trade implications. The ministers emphasised that diplomatic engagement remained essential to preventing further escalation and addressing outstanding disputes.
The ministers also discussed the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. They reviewed regional security concerns and stressed the need for negotiated outcomes. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict was another major topic, with the participants highlighting the importance of achieving a negotiated two-state solution in accordance with relevant United Nations resolutions.
Maritime security featured prominently in the talks. The ministers discussed rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb, two important waterways for international shipping and trade. They highlighted the importance of maintaining safe and free navigation, given the potential consequences of regional instability for global commerce and energy supplies.
The meeting also addressed attacks by Houthi forces against Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni government. These developments remain a concern for regional security and maritime traffic. The ministers considered the need for diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions and support stability across the region.
The situation in the Black Sea was another issue on the agenda. The ministers discussed regional challenges and the importance of addressing conflicts through peaceful negotiations. Their joint position stressed the need for solutions consistent with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions.
The eight countries reaffirmed their commitment to supporting diplomatic initiatives aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond. They also agreed to continue consultations in the same format. The renewed dialogue is intended to help prevent conflicts, address shared security concerns and advance negotiated solutions to regional disputes.
