Officials in Riyadh and Islamabad are currently engaged in discussions regarding the anticipated visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman to Pakistan, according to official sources.
Reports had circulated suggesting a delay in the high-profile visit, prompting clarification from government sources. The exact date for the visit remains undetermined, with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also communicating with Saudi authorities regarding the matter.
Initial reports indicated that Mohammad bin Salman was set to arrive in Islamabad on May 19 for a two-day visit. However, no official schedule had been confirmed. Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zehra Baloch affirmed that details would be disclosed once a schedule is finalized between the two nations.
The delay in the crown prince’s visit follows heightened diplomatic and trade engagements between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, particularly after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to the Kingdom in March. This visit holds significant importance for Pakistan, as it anticipates substantial investments from Saudi Arabia across various sectors.
Mohammad Bin Salman’s visit, if realized, would mark his first trip to Pakistan in five years, his last being in February 2019 during the tenure of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. It also aims to materialize agreements made in Makkah between both countries to attract Saudi investments worth $5 billion into Pakistan.
The postponement underscores the intricate nature of diplomatic arrangements and the necessity for thorough coordination between nations. Despite the delay, the eagerness of both Pakistani authorities and citizens remains palpable, reflecting the strong bonds between the two brotherly nations. The visit holds promise for further strengthening bilateral ties and fostering mutual cooperation in various fields, paving the way for enhanced economic and strategic partnerships in the region.
