PM Shehbaz
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a high-level meeting with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, where the two leaders engaged in constructive discussions to enhance bilateral cooperation in key sectors, including trade, investment, energy, and security.
The meeting underscored the deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and the commitment of both nations to further strengthening their strategic partnership.
In a statement shared on social media, PM Shehbaz expressed his appreciation for the Saudi leadership’s continued support for Pakistan. He emphasized that the longstanding friendship between the two countries is evolving into a more dynamic economic partnership, reflecting a shared vision of regional stability and prosperity. He reiterated that robust bilateral relations are now manifesting in enhanced investment and trade cooperation.
The high-profile meeting was attended by key Pakistani officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
The discussions focused on strengthening economic, trade, and defense ties, with PM Shehbaz commending Saudi Arabia’s commitment to increasing its investment in critical sectors of Pakistan’s economy.
Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing defense and security collaboration, with a particular emphasis on regional stability. Geopolitical issues, including the situation in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, were also discussed. PM Shehbaz lauded Saudi Arabia’s proactive role in promoting peace and stability both regionally and globally.
Support for Pakistani Community in Saudi Arabia
During the discussions, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman acknowledged the significant contributions of the 2.7 million-strong Pakistani diaspora in Saudi Arabia. Both sides agreed to further improve measures for their welfare and strengthen cultural exchanges, educational collaboration, and people-to-people ties.
Commitment to Elevate Strategic Partnership
PM Shehbaz and the Saudi Crown Prince reaffirmed their determination to elevate their strategic partnership to new heights. They pledged to work closely on fostering economic growth, regional stability, and mutual prosperity.
PM Shehbaz’s Arrival in Jeddah for a Four-Day Official Visit
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Jeddah on Wednesday for a four-day visit aimed at boosting trade and fostering economic collaboration between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Upon arrival, he was warmly received by Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, the deputy governor of Makkah.
During his stay, PM Shehbaz is expected to hold further meetings with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss trade expansion, strategic partnerships, and economic cooperation across various sectors.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have been strengthening business-to-business (B2B) collaboration, with both countries signing 34 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements worth $2.8 billion during Shehbaz’s visit to Riyadh last October. These agreements aim to enhance private-sector partnerships and commercial ventures between the two nations.
Saudi Arabia remains a vital economic partner for Pakistan, not only in terms of trade but also due to its status as the top destination for Pakistani workers. Over the past five years, approximately 1.7 million Pakistani workers have migrated to Saudi Arabia, further deepening labor and economic ties. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which focuses on economic diversification and attracting foreign investment, presents new opportunities for Pakistani businesses and investors.
Last month, Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan inaugurated the first-ever solo “Made in Pakistan” exhibition in Jeddah, highlighting the strong trade potential between the two nations. The exhibition showcased Pakistani products and industries, further solidifying the economic ties between both countries.
High-Level Delegation Accompanies PM Shehbaz
The prime minister is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, key federal ministers, and senior officials. The delegation is set to engage with Saudi counterparts to explore new investment avenues and expand economic cooperation.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) emphasized that this visit will reinforce the deep historical ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia while paving the way for enhanced trade, investment, and diplomatic collaboration on bilateral, regional, and global fronts.
