PM to attend OIC summit on Palestine in Turkey on May 18

ISLAMABAD: The government has decided to observe “Solidarity Day with Palestine” on Friday (May 18) as Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi will participate in Extraordinary Session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) convened by Turkey on the same day in Turkey on the situation arising from the massacre of innocent Palestinians at the hands of Israeli forces.

Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildrim talked to Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi Tuesday evening. During the telephonic call, the Turkish prime minister extended invitation to the prime minister for participation in the session of the OIC convened by Turkey on 18th May.

Prime minister condemned actions taken by occupying forces and reiterated Pakistan's solidarity and support for the peaceful struggle of the people of Palestine for their homeland. Thanking Turkey for it's timely initiative, prime minister confirmed his participation in the extraordinary session of the OIC Summit being hosted by Turkey. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is current Chairman of the OIC.

The government here has decided to observe the day for expression of solidarity with Palestinian brethrens. Arrangements will be made for offering special prayers for the redemption of the Palestinian at the face of cruelties of Israel.

It has been officially stated that the government and people of Pakistan would continue to extend their support for Palestinian brethren and will highlight their case on ever world forum.

In the meanwhile Chief of Army Staff of the Nepalese Army, General Rajendra Chhetri called on Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi at Islamabad. Minister for Defence & Foreign Affairs, Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan and senior officials were also present during the meeting.

During the meeting, matters pertaining to bilateral relations were discussed. The prime minister stated that Pakistan had always endeavoured to maintain friendly relations with all regional countries and peace in the region. The premier reiterated that Pakistan had rendered huge sacrifices in the war against terrorism both in economic terms and loss of precious lives.

The PM expressed the hope that bilateral relations between Pakistan and Nepal including cooperation between the two countries in the defence sector would be further strengthened.

The Nepalese army chief conveyed warm greetings of the Prime Minister of Nepal Khagda Parsad Oli to Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi. He also appreciated the high level of professionalism of Pakistan military and acknowledged their sacrifices in the war against terrorism.