ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to embark on a two-day official visit to Saudi Arabia on Thursday evening, accompanied by a high-level delegation, as Pakistan seeks to strengthen strategic ties with the Kingdom and discuss key regional developments.
According to official sources, the prime minister will hold an important meeting with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, during which both leaders are expected to review the full spectrum of bilateral relations and explore ways to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, energy, defence, and regional security.
The visit comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with the regional security situation expected to feature prominently in the discussions. Sources said the two leaders will exchange views on the evolving Iran–United States tensions, ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation, and initiatives aimed at promoting peace and stability across the region.
Pakistan has maintained close diplomatic engagement with regional and international partners in recent months, emphasizing dialogue and peaceful negotiations to address regional conflicts. Islamabad continues to support efforts aimed at reducing tensions and encouraging diplomatic solutions to ongoing crises.
The meeting is also expected to reaffirm the long-standing strategic partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The two countries enjoy close cooperation in political, economic, security, and defence matters, while Saudi Arabia remains one of Pakistan’s most important allies and a major source of investment and financial support.
The visit follows Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent telephone conversation with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, during which the Pakistani premier reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kingdom’s security, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and prosperity.
During that conversation, Prime Minister Shehbaz strongly condemned attacks carried out by the Houthi militia against Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, describing them as unacceptable and a violation of international law.
He said such attacks threaten freedom of navigation, disrupt international commercial shipping, and pose serious risks to regional peace and stability.
The prime minister also reaffirmed Pakistan’s complete solidarity with Saudi Arabia, stating that he, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and the people of Pakistan stand firmly alongside the Saudi leadership during challenging times.
Officials believe the latest visit will further strengthen Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations and provide an opportunity for both leaderships to coordinate on regional security, economic cooperation, investment opportunities, and issues of mutual interest.
