ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia started on Monday talks on bilateral defence cooperation under what is often described by the Pakistani leadership as ‘New Era of Strategic Partnership’ between the two countries.

The two countries had agreed on reinvigorating their defence relationship during Saudi Foreign Minister Saud al Faisal’s visit to Islamabad earlier this month. However, it was left to the defence experts to work out the details.

Saudi Deputy Defence Minister Prince Suleman bin Sultan bin Abdul Aziz, who was in Islamabad for follow-up meetings, opened talks with the military authorities at the General Headquarters on Monday.

In a departure from the protocol, the deputy defence minister was given a guard of honour on arrival at the GHQ. He met Army Chief Gen Raheel Sharif before the start of the delegation-level talks.

The two sides have not disclosed the areas in which they are intending to enhance their cooperation, but sources say Riyadh is interested in procuring military hardware produced in Pakistan and training.

Warming of Pak-Saudi ties, after six years of unease due to political reasons, has been driven by developments on the international scene following which Riyadh looks to be needing Islamabad’s support.

The visiting Saudi minister opened the talks by praising “Pak Army’s professionalism and combat efficiency” and paying tribute to the “bravery and sacrifices” of Pakistani troops in the war on terrorism.

Prince Suleman also paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Mr Sharif, speaking on this occasion, called for starting the new phase of intensified ties.

“In view of current challenges, there is a need to further strengthen defence cooperation between the two countries and a new era of strategic relationship needs to start in order to further broaden and deepen the existing cordial bilateral relations”, Mr Sharif was quoted by his office as having said.

The two leaders discussed the regional situation and about how they could coordinate their positions and support each other.