Naqvi, Saudi counterpart discuss initiatives to strengthen bilateral cooperation

Naqvi congratulated Kingdom on securing hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA World Cup

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, during his visit to Riyadh, emphasised the close relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

Naqvi met Saudi Minister of State for Interior Dr Khalid Mohammed Abdullah Al-Batal and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ahmed Farooq, during his trip, Express News reported.

Naqvi congratulated Saudi Arabia on securing hosting rights for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, expressing his well-wishes for the tournament’s success.

The minister highlighted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 as a groundbreaking initiative for prosperity and development.

“Saudi Arabia is one of Pakistan’s most trusted allies, and every Pakistani cherishes this friendship,” Naqvi said, noting the warm hospitality he experienced during his visit.

Dr Al-Batal underscored the deep ties between the two nations, adding that the visit would pave the way for stronger collaboration on mutual interest.

Saudi crown prince accepts invitation to visit Pakistan

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the 'One Water Summit' in Riyadh where they discussed strengthening the economic, trade, and investment ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

The crown prince expressed his pleasure over the fifth meeting between the two leaders in the past six months, describing it as a reflection of the deep mutual respect and affection between the two nations.

He emphasised that such frequent interactions were a testament to the strong bond that connects the people of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

During the meeting, both leaders agreed on the importance of further enhancing economic and trade relations. "The strengthening of cooperation between our two countries is crucial for Pakistan’s economic development and prosperity," the Crown Prince said.

They also expressed satisfaction over the progress made in implementing memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements related to investment in Pakistan. PM Shehbaz thanked the crown prince for his continued support and for extending his best wishes to the people of Pakistan.

The PM invited MBS to visit Pakistan soon, a proposal that was warmly accepted by the crown prince, who expressed his eagerness to visit at the earliest.