Pakistan, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt have, in a joint statement, stressed that diplomacy remains the only solution to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

According to the statement, the four nations’ foreign ministers have discussed recent regional and international developments, reaffirming the importance of continued consultation “in support of peace, security, stability and prosperity in the Middle East and the broader region”.

“Expressing deep concern over continued tension and hostilities in the region, the Ministers underscored that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path towards sustainable resolution, and in this context, they underscored the need for upholding the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding for lasting peace and stability,” the statement read.

It also condemns attacks on Saudi Arabia by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, reaffirming their support for Riyadh’s sovereignty and supporting its right to self-defence.

The FMs also stressed the importance of maintaining safety and freedom of navigation in the maritime domain, according to the statement.