Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have a long and multifaceted relationship built on mutual economic interests, strategic military cooperation, and shared Islamic heritage. Riyadh has consistently been a vital source of financial aid and oil for Islamabad, strengthening their bond.
According to a Foreign Office (FO) statement, PM Shehbaz Sharif embarked on a state visit at the invitation of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. “During the visit, the prime minister will hold a bilateral meeting with the crown prince to review the entire spectrum of Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations,” the statement noted.
The FO added that both leaders are expected to exchange views on various regional and global developments. “The visit is expected to result in the formalization of cooperation in diverse fields, reflecting the shared commitment of both sides to further enhance and deepen their longstanding fraternal ties.”
Highlighting the “historic relationship,” the statement emphasized that the visit would “provide an important opportunity to the two leaders to consolidate this unique partnership, while exploring new avenues of collaboration for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries.”
Radio Pakistan reported that the premier’s delegation included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Federal Minister for Environment Musadik Malik, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.
In July, President Asif Zardari met with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmed Al-Malki to discuss ways to enhance bilateral cooperation, especially in trade, economy, and culture. During the meeting, President Zardari invited Saudi investors to explore opportunities in Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz had previously met the Saudi crown prince during a two-day official visit in June, where he thanked the Saudi leader for his role in ending the conflict between Pakistan and India in May.
