UAE-Israel historic deal has 'far-reaching implications'

Islamabad has an abiding commitment to full realisation of legitimate rights of Palestinians, says FO

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan on Friday reacted cautiously to the landmark agreement between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel on establishing diplomatic ties, saying the development has “far-reaching implications”.

“We have noted the joint statement announcing agreement of the UAE and Israel to have full normalisation of relations. This is a development with far-reaching implications,” said a statement issued by the Foreign Office after a surprise announcement by US President Donald Trump on Thursday that the UAE was establishing diplomatic ties with Israel.

The statement was carefully worded perhaps as authorities appear to have been treading a careful path. Observers believe that any official criticism against the UAE will further complicate Pakistan’s ties with the Arab world. Islamabad is already upset over the lack of desired support from Arab countries on Kashmir dispute.

Explaining Pakistan’s stance, the Foreign Office handout read: “Pakistan has an abiding commitment to the full realisation of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including the right to self-determination. Peace and stability in the Middle East region is also Pakistan’s key priority.”

The communique added: “For a just, comprehensive and lasting peace, Pakistan has consistently supported a two-state solution in accordance with the relevant UN and OIC resolutions as well as international law.”

The UAE’s move to embrace Israel has triggered debate in Pakistan with some suggesting that whether Pakistan needs to revisit its current Middle East policy.

“Pakistan’s approach will be guided by our evaluation of how Palestinians’ rights and aspirations are upheld and how regional peace, security and stability are preserved,” the FO said in carefully worded remarks.

The UAE has become the third Arab country after Egypt and Jordon to have full diplomatic ties with Israel. Other Arab countries including Oman and Bahrain are likely to follow the suit, reports suggest.

The shift in the Middle East suggests that the Arab countries, which once was staunch supporters of the Palestinian cause. Pakistan’s position on Palestinian issue has also been driven by the stance taken by Arab countries.