Pakistani delegation leaves for Saudi Arabia to hold talks on Yemen

ISLAMABAD: A high-level delegation comprising Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Advisor to PM on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz and military officials left for Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

The Pakistani delegation will hold meetings with high-ranking Saudi officials over the situation in Yemen.

Prior to departure, Khawaja Asif said Pakistan would provide support to Saudi Arabia if the country’s security was threatened. The minister emphasised that Pakistan supported a peaceful resolution and was seeking an end to the conflicts in the Muslim world.

On Monday a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif concluded that Pakistan remains firmly committed to supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity on Saudi Arabia in accordance with the aspirations of the people of Pakistan.

Attended among others, by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif, Advisor on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman and Foreign Secretary, the meeting undertook a comprehensive review of the prevailing situation in the Middle East.

It was emphasised that Pakistan stands committed to playing a meaningful role in arresting the deteriorating situation in the Middle East.

In the same context, and to facilitate early resolution of the crisis and to promote peace and unity of the Muslim Community, the PM would be contacting the leadership of brotherly countries.

Pakistan will also call upon the United Nations, OIC, and the international community to play a constructive role in finding a political solution to the crisis.

However, the decision to send Pakistani troops to assist Saudi Arabia was not yet confirmed during the meeting.