By Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman today during a state visit to Saudi Arabia. The meeting aims to strengthen Pakistan-Saudi relations, discuss regional developments, and formalize cooperation across multiple sectors, according to Pakistan’s Foreign Office.
Historic Pakistan-Saudi Partnership
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share a longstanding strategic partnership, rooted in shared faith, values, and mutual trust. The two countries have a history of bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, and economic development, with Saudi Arabia being a key supporter of Pakistan during economic challenges.
Since assuming office, PM Sharif has visited Saudi Arabia multiple times, including twice this year, to boost economic and commercial ties. In October last year, both countries signed 34 MoUs and agreements worth $2.8 billion, enhancing private sector collaboration and investment opportunities.
Context of the Visit: Middle East Tensions
The visit comes amid rising Middle East tensions, where Israel has expanded military operations, targeting regional nations including Iran and Qatar. Earlier this month, Israel conducted an airstrike on Qatar, which was facilitating ceasefire and hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
PM Sharif also met the Saudi crown prince at the emergency Arab-Islamic Summit in Doha this week, convened to support Qatar following the Israeli attack.
Key Focus Areas of the State Visit
According to the Foreign Office of Pakistan, the two leaders will:
- Exchange views on regional and global developments of mutual interest
- Formalize bilateral cooperation in multiple sectors
- Review the full spectrum of Pakistan-Saudi relations
- Explore new avenues of collaboration for economic, trade, and strategic growth
The visit also emphasizes Pakistan’s recognition of Saudi Arabia as a key strategic and economic ally, with the Kingdom providing financial support, IMF assistance, and significant remittances from over 2.5 million Pakistani expatriates, critical to sustaining Pakistan’s $350 billion economy.
Economic and Strategic Importance
Saudi Arabia remains Pakistan’s largest source of foreign remittances, crucial for stabilizing the economy amid macroeconomic pressures and external challenges. The state visit highlights a shared commitment to enhancing fraternal ties and strengthening cooperation for the benefit of citizens in both countries.
