JEDDAH: Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation between the two nations. The meeting, held during the Prime Minister’s four-day visit to Saudi Arabia, highlighted key areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, defense, and regional stability.
A Warm Reception in Saudi Arabia
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Saudi Arabia on an official visit, receiving a warm welcome upon landing in the Kingdom. The Deputy Governor of Mecca, Prince Saud, greeted the Pakistani premier, signifying the deep-rooted and historic ties between the two nations. The visit is part of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to bolster diplomatic and economic relations with Saudi Arabia, a key ally and partner in the Muslim world.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Economic Cooperation
During the meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, both leaders discussed strategies to further enhance trade and investment between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has been a longstanding economic partner, providing financial support and investment in key Pakistani sectors, including energy, infrastructure, and agriculture. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic collaboration, with a focus on attracting Saudi investment in Pakistan’s development projects.
Pakistan has been actively seeking foreign direct investment to boost its economy, and Saudi Arabia has shown significant interest in investing in Pakistan’s renewable energy sector, infrastructure projects, and the Gwadar Port under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Discussions also included the establishment of joint ventures and easing trade barriers to enhance economic activity between the two nations.
Military and Defense Cooperation
The meeting also covered military cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, a crucial aspect of their bilateral relationship. The leaders explored ways to further enhance defense collaboration, including joint military exercises, defense production, and intelligence sharing. Saudi Arabia has historically relied on Pakistan for military training and strategic partnerships, and this visit aimed to reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to the security and stability of the region.
Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, accompanied the Prime Minister during the meeting, emphasizing the significance of military relations. The presence of the Army Chief highlighted the role of Pakistan’s armed forces in strengthening bilateral defense ties, particularly in areas such as counterterrorism and security cooperation.
Regional and International Developments
Beyond bilateral relations, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman exchanged views on key regional and international issues. The leaders discussed ongoing geopolitical tensions, the evolving situation in the Middle East, and the need for collective efforts to ensure peace and stability in the region. Both countries have historically worked together on diplomatic fronts, particularly within organizations like the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), to address challenges facing the Muslim world.
The leaders also touched upon Pakistan’s efforts to mediate in regional conflicts and Saudi Arabia’s role in fostering peace and stability. The two sides expressed their commitment to working closely on international forums to advocate for the rights and interests of the Muslim community globally.
Pakistani Delegation Accompanying the Prime Minister
A high-level delegation accompanied Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on his visit, underlining the importance of the trip. The delegation included:
- Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir
- Deputy Prime Minister, Ishaq Dar
- Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz
- Several federal ministers and key officials
The presence of senior government and military officials indicated Pakistan’s strong intent to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia across multiple domains, from economic cooperation to defense and diplomatic engagement.
Religious Pilgrimage: Umrah and Visit to the Prophet’s Holy Shrine
As part of his visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will also perform Umrah, a significant religious pilgrimage in Islam. He will visit the Holy Kaaba in Mecca to offer prayers, seeking blessings for Pakistan’s prosperity and stability. Additionally, the Prime Minister will travel to Madinah to visit the Holy Shrine of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), reflecting the deep spiritual and cultural ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia has been a favored destination for Pakistani leaders for religious visits, and this trip further strengthens the bond between the two nations through shared faith and religious traditions.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Pak-Saudi Relations
The meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscores the enduring partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing economic, military, and diplomatic ties for mutual benefit.
Pakistan views Saudi Arabia as a vital ally in the Muslim world, and this visit paves the way for increased cooperation in diverse fields. As Saudi Arabia continues its Vision 2030 economic transformation, Pakistan aims to align its economic and trade interests with the Kingdom’s ambitious plans.
The outcomes of this visit are expected to yield positive developments in the months ahead, fostering stronger relations and opening new avenues of collaboration between the two brotherly nations.
