Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar has expressed Pakistan's deep concern on the continued escalation of violence in the Middle East.

He was addressing the meeting of 21st Council of the Foreign Ministers of D-8 Countries being held in Cairo, Egypt today.

He said the situation in Gaza has worsened with devastating loss of precious live and injuries to large number of innocent civilians.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister called for an immediate and unconditional end to the hostilities in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria and for responding to the humanitarian situation in the Middle East.

He highlighted the potential for economic collaboration and trade within the D-8 economies, specifically in the areas of agriculture, food security and tourism.

He termed the signing of the Protocol on the D-8 PTA Dispute Settlement Mechanism as a key achievement for resolving trade disputes and promoting intra-regional trade.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister underscored Pakistan's commitment to working with other D-8 member states for collective prosperity and development.

He also expressed Pakistan's support for Azerbaijan's application for membership of the D-8.