From Dawn · News Desk | Reuters · · 1m 30s
Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye meet European trio in Istanbul
Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye to hold R-4+E-3 meeting with EU in Istanbul.
In brief
Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye to hold R-4+E-3 meeting with EU in Istanbul. Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye will meet European powers in Istanbul to discuss regional security and diplomatic coordination amid global conflicts. Originally reported by Dawn.
R-4 Group Formed
Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye formed an R-4 group in March to focus on regional security and mediation between the United States and Iran.
E-3 Group Background
The E-3 group consists of France, Britain, and Germany, established over 20 years ago to coordinate diplomatic efforts on Iran’s nuclear program.
Istanbul Meeting Announcement
Turkiye will host an R-4 and R-4+E-3 foreign minister meeting in Istanbul on October 23, 2026, according to the Turkish foreign ministry.
Foreign Ministry Response
The Foreign Office in Islamabad has not yet commented on the planned meetings, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is expected to attend.
Meeting Purpose
The ministers will discuss the Israeli-Palestinian issue, the Strait of Hormuz situation, Yemen developments, efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, and opportunities for closer cooperation.
Fidan's Emphasis
Fidan will stress the need for a diplomatic solution to the US-Iran conflict, freedom of navigation in key straits, and Turkiye’s support for Saudi Arabia against Houthi attacks.
Ukraine Conflict Focus
Turkiye will highlight efforts to prevent the Russia-Ukraine war from spreading to the Black Sea, citing regional security risks.
Meeting Context
The meeting is Turkiye’s initiative to address shipping route threats from wars in Iran, Yemen, and Ukraine.
The big picture
Pakistan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye will meet European powers in Istanbul to discuss regional security and diplomatic coordination amid global conflicts.
