Pakistan
According to a report by Business Recorder on Sunday, the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Pakistan has been postponed indefinitely, pending the finalization of mutually convenient dates by both parties.
The delay comes as the two countries remain in diplomatic communication to reschedule the visit at the earliest opportunity, although no specific reason for the postponement was provided.
If confirmed, this delay would mark the second time the crown prince’s visit to Pakistan has been postponed.
His planned trip in November 2022 faced similar delays attributed to political uncertainties surrounding elections at that time.
Originally, the crown prince’s visit to Pakistan was anticipated to occur either before or after his scheduled trip to Japan, scheduled from May 20 to 23.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended an invitation to Mohammed bin Salman during his official visit to Saudi Arabia, which was accepted by the crown prince.
Earlier this week, a delegation of prominent Saudi businessmen visited Pakistan, engaging in discussions with local counterparts to explore investment opportunities.
This visit aligned with the government’s ongoing efforts to attract Saudi investment as part of a comprehensive strategy to address Pakistan’s economic challenges.
However, during a press briefing on May 9, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch declined to provide specific dates for the crown prince’s visit, citing the government’s policy of not prematurely announcing official visits.
While the postponement of Mohammed bin Salman’s visit is undoubtedly a setback, both countries remain committed to rescheduling the visit and strengthening bilateral ties in the near future.
