ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have stepped up diplomatic engagement to ensure that current regional tensions do not escalate into a broader conflict among Muslim nations.
The understanding was reached during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s brief but significant visit to Saudi Arabia on Thursday.
Sharif was accompanied by Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, where they held discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman amid growing tensions in the Middle East.
According to sources, both sides stressed the need for urgent diplomatic initiatives to ease tensions and avoid further escalation. They agreed that disputes in the region should be addressed through dialogue and peaceful engagement rather than confrontation.
The two countries reaffirmed their long-standing stance that conflicts among Muslim states must be avoided and that collective efforts are needed to prevent tensions from developing into a larger confrontation within the Muslim world.
During the talks, the Pakistani delegation expressed firm support for Saudi Arabia and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the Kingdom’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.
Officials also highlighted Pakistan’s view of Saudi Arabia as the guardian of Islam’s holiest sites, stating that their protection carries deep significance and responsibility for Pakistan and its armed forces.
Sources further noted that the presence of Asim Munir in military uniform during the meeting symbolised the unity of Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership in supporting Saudi Arabia’s security.
The Saudi Crown Prince also hosted a private dinner for the Pakistani delegation, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Ishaq Dar and Asim Munir a gesture interpreted by officials as a sign of the strong and special relationship between the two countries.
