RIYADH: Leaders reaffirm their dedication to strengthening economic and strategic cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Monday, focusing on bilateral relations, regional issues, and areas of mutual interest. The visit was made at the invitation of the Crown Prince to participate in the ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII9) conference in Riyadh.
Upon arrival at Al Yamamah Palace, PM Shehbaz and his delegation received a warm welcome from MBS, with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir also present during the discussions. The leaders reviewed the current state of their bilateral relationship and agreed to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors. They also exchanged views on regional and international developments.
Both sides emphasized the importance of expanding trade and investment ties, reaffirming their commitment to bolster economic relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The Prime Minister is leading a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and special aides Tariq Fatemi and Bilal bin Saqib.
The delegation’s participation in FII9, themed “The Key to Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers of Growth,” aims to foster global discussions on innovation, sustainability, economic inclusion, and geopolitical shifts. The Foreign Office highlighted that the forum will bring together world leaders, investors, policymakers, and innovators to explore opportunities and address global challenges.
During the conference, PM Shehbaz is expected to engage with Saudi officials to explore avenues for increased cooperation in trade, energy, investment, and human resource development. The discussions will also encompass regional and international issues of common concern.
Additionally, PM Shehbaz will interact with other international leaders and representatives from global organizations present at FII9. The Foreign Office stated that these exchanges will demonstrate Pakistan’s potential for investment and its commitment to sustainable development, following the “Think, Exchange, and Act” approach.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have been reinforcing their partnership through various agreements, including a significant defense pact signed during PM Shehbaz’s previous visit to Riyadh on September 18. The pact stipulates that an attack on one nation will be regarded as an attack on both, signaling a deepening of strategic ties.
