Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has received a formal invitation from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to participate in the ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative Forum, scheduled to take place in Riyadh from October 27 to 30.
The invitation was personally delivered by Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malky, who met the prime minister and handed over a signed letter from the crown prince. The gathering was described as warm and cordial, with both sides discussing recent regional developments.
PM’s Response and Greetings
Accepting the invitation, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed his warm greetings and respectful regards to King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation with Saudi Arabia in areas of mutual interest.
Support for Azerbaijan-Armenia Peace Agreement
During the meeting, the prime minister also commented on recent international developments, welcoming the historic peace agreement signed between Azerbaijan and Armenia under the auspices of the United States.
Calling it a “landmark development,” he noted that the accord marked the beginning of a new era of peace, stability, and cooperation in the South Caucasus—an area that has endured decades of conflict. He congratulated Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan, highlighting their wisdom and foresight in pursuing a peaceful future.
The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding support for Azerbaijan and praised the mediation efforts that brought both sides to the negotiating table. He expressed hope that this spirit of dialogue could serve as a model for other regions facing prolonged conflicts, opening pathways for trade, connectivity, and regional integration.
Focus on Balochistan’s Development
Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz held a meeting with National Party President Dr Abdul Malik Baloch to discuss the federal government’s development priorities for Balochistan.
He emphasized that the progress and prosperity of Balochistan and its people remain among the top priorities of his administration. The discussion focused on improving access to education, creating livelihood opportunities for youth, and enhancing infrastructure in the province.
Dr Baloch expressed appreciation for the government’s initiatives and ongoing efforts to uplift Balochistan, noting that such measures are crucial for long-term stability and growth. Adviser to the Prime Minister Dr Touqeer Shah also attended the meeting.
