PM meets MBS, pledges to deepen defence, trade ties
• Lauds Saudi Arabia’s commitment to increasing investment in key sectors
• Two nations agree to strengthen bilateral economic partnership
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with a focus on defence, security, trade and investment. Both sides recognised the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing regional security challenges.
The commitment was reiterated during a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman (MBS).
The prime minister, who is on a four-day official visit to the kingdom, was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir, and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
Discussions centred on enhancing cooperation in economic, trade, investment, energy and defence sectors, with both leaders expressing satisfaction with the growing economic collaboration.
PM Shehbaz appreciated the kingdom’s commitment to increasing investment in key sectors, which would contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth and stability.
The two leaders held in-depth discussions on the evolving regional situation as well as the geopolitical landscape and agreed to work closely at all levels to promote their shared vision for peace, stability and prosperity in the region.
The Saudi crown prince acknowledged the significant contributions of the Pakistani community in Saudi Arabia and agreed to enhance measures to facilitate their welfare.
Both leaders emphasised the need to strengthen people-to-people ties further, as well as cultural exchanges and educational collaboration.
The prime minister and the crown prince reaffirmed their commitment to elevating the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia partnership to new heights, guided by mutual respect, shared interests and a common vision for progress and prosperity.
Economic partnership
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia also agreed to deepen their economic partnership through structured engagements and the swift execution of joint projects.
The discussions took place during PM Shehbaz’s meetings with Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih and Head of the Joint Task Force for Economic Engagement Mohammad Al-Tuwaijri. The talks focused on strengthening economic cooperation, attracting Saudi investments and accelerating joint initiatives in key sectors.
The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating Saudi investors, highlighting the country’s strategic position and investment-friendly policies.
He emphasised Pakistan’s vast potential in energy, infrastructure, agriculture and technology, inviting Saudi businesses to explore opportunities under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
Mr Al-Falih and Mr Al-Tuwaijri expressed Saudi Arabia’s strong interest in deepening economic ties with Pakistan. They discussed enhancing institutional collaboration to accelerate investment projects and ensure their smooth implementation.
The meeting underscored the commitment of both nations to fostering a long-term, mutually beneficial economic relationship.
The prime minister was accompanied by Mr Dar, Maryam Nawaz, Minister for Climate Change Musadik Malik, and SIFC’s
National Coordinator, Lt Gen Sarfraz Ahmed.
The Saudi delegation included representatives of the Saudi Ministry of Investment and the Joint Task Force for Economic Engagement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
Later, PM Shehbaz arrived in Madinah Munawara, where he was received at the airport by Governor of Madinah Prince Salman bin Sultan Al-Saud.
During his visit, the premier will pay respects at Roza-i-Rasool (Peace Be Upon Him) and offer prayers at Masjid-i-Nabawi.
He will also offer special prayers for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.
Published in Dawn, March 21st, 2025
