ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has departed for Saudi Arabia on an official day-long visit aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties and broadening cooperation in diverse fields.
According to the Foreign Office, the premier is accompanied by senior cabinet members. He is scheduled to hold talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, during which both sides will review the full spectrum of Pakistan–Saudi Arabia relations and discuss regional and global issues of common concern.
“The visit is expected to lead to the formalisation of collaboration in multiple sectors, reaffirming the commitment of both nations to deepen their partnership,” the FO statement noted. It added that the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is anchored in shared faith, values, and mutual trust.
Since assuming office, PM Shehbaz has travelled to Saudi Arabia on several occasions. In October 2024, the two countries signed 34 memoranda of understanding to enhance private sector engagement and boost commercial linkages. This year alone, he has already visited the Kingdom twice, first in March for talks on trade and investment, and again in June during Eidul Adha.
Earlier this week, the prime minister also met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of an emergency Arab-Islamic summit in Doha, held in solidarity with Qatar after Israeli airstrikes on September 9. During that meeting, Shehbaz lauded the crown prince’s leadership in uniting the Muslim world and assured Pakistan’s diplomatic support at forums including the UN Security Council and the OIC.
