Istanbul:The foreign ministers of Turkey, Egypt, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia, collectively known as the ‘R4’ group, have emphasized the necessity of dialogue and diplomacy to address regional conflicts and promote stability. This reaffirmation came during a meeting held in Istanbul, where the ministers reiterated their commitment to diplomatic efforts aimed at fostering peace in the region and beyond.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the meeting was highlighted by a joint press statement from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The statement underscored the need for dialogue, diplomacy, and de-escalation as means to address and resolve regional conflicts. The meeting included participation from foreign ministers of the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy, discussing key regional and international issues impacting security and stability.

The discussions focused on the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, and the pressing need to negotiate a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian issue. The ministers condemned the Houthi group’s attacks against Saudi Arabia and Yemen and addressed maritime security concerns in strategic waterways like the Bab el-Mandeb, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Black Sea.

The foreign ministers stressed the critical importance of diplomatic coordination to mitigate the impacts of regional crises on security, the economy, and trade. They highlighted that dialogue and diplomacy are urgently needed to contain conflicts and prevent further escalation, advocating for lasting solutions through negotiations in line with United Nations resolutions. The statement also mentioned the ministers’ agreement to maintain dialogue and consultations to prevent conflicts and strengthen peace and stability in the region.

The meeting, held on Friday, included discussions on the Palestinian issue, developments in the Strait of Hormuz, Yemen’s situation, and efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine war. The talks also explored future cooperation opportunities between the ‘R4’ and the ‘E3’ group, which includes the United Kingdom, Germany, and France, with Italy participating.