Saudi Arabia, Pakistan to strengthen defence, security relations

JEDDAH:

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to take bilateral partnership to new heights and strengthening defense and security cooperation, recognising the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing regional security challenges.

The bilateral ties and cooperation were discussed in a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman here.

The prime minister, who is on a four-day visit to the kingdom, was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Chief of the Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The meeting reaffirmed the strong and historic ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, with discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in economic, trade, investment, energy and defense sectors.

Both the leaders expressed satisfaction with the growing economic collaboration between the two nations.

The prime minister appreciated the kingdom's commitment to increasing investments 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 geopolitical landscape and agreed to work closely at all levels for promoting 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 the leaders emphasized the need to further strengthen people-to-people ties, cultural exchanges, and educational collaboration.

The prime minister and the crown prince reaffirmed their commitment to elevating Pakistan-Saudi Arabia partnership to new heights, guided by mutual respect, shared interests, and a common vision for progress and prosperity.

 

Economic ties with Pakistan

In a separate meeting, Saudi Arabia's Minister for Investment Sheikh Khalid Bin Abdul Aziz Al Faleh expressed the country's interest in deepening economic ties with Pakistan.

The bilateral economic cooperation was discussed as PM Shehbaz met Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al Faleh and Head of the Joint Task Force for Economic Engagement Mohammad Al Tuwaijri during the four-day visit.

The discussions focused on strengthening economic cooperation, attracting Saudi investments, and expediting joint initiatives in key sectors.

After extending best wishes to the Kingdom's leadership, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to facilitating Saudi investors, highlighting the countrys 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 SIFC.

Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al Faleh and Head of Task Force Mohammad 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.

PM in Madina

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Thursday arrived in Madina Munawara. On arrival in Madina Munawara, Governor Madina Prince Salman bin Sultan al-Saud received the prime minister at the airport.

He will pay his respects at Roza-e-Rasool of Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) and offer prayers and Nawafil in Masjid-e-Nabwi. He will offer special prayers for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.