Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, accompanied by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and a high-level delegation, performed Umrah on Thursday night during their official visit to Saudi Arabia. This visit is being undertaken at the special invitation of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The door of the Holy Kaaba was specially opened for the delegation, where they also offered “Nawafil” and expressed gratitude to Allah Almighty for the victory of “Bunyan-um-Marsoos.” They offered prayers of thanks for Pakistan’s recent achievements in economic and public welfare domains, and also made special supplications for the country’s progress and prosperity. Additionally, prayers were offered for the oppressed Muslims in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and Palestine.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar also accompanied the premier during this visit.
During his two-day visit to the kingdom, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet with the Saudi Crown Prince, who also serves as the Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia. A foreign office spokesperson stated in a press release that “discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation in key areas, including trade and investment, the welfare of the Muslim Ummah, and regional peace and security.” The spokesperson further added that “the prime minister will also express gratitude to the Saudi leadership for its constructive role in de-escalating the recent Pakistan-India conflict.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz’s visit coincides with ongoing Hajj rituals in the kingdom and the celebration of Eid ul Adha.
Furthermore, this visit underscores the enduring and deeply rooted relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, founded on shared faith, mutual respect, and a strong strategic partnership. It also reaffirms both nations’ commitment to enhancing economic and diplomatic engagement, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and Pakistan’s own development priorities. The statement concluded that the Prime Minister’s visit is expected to further solidify Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations and open new avenues for multifaceted collaboration.
