JEDDAH: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to taking bilateral partnership to new heights and strengthening defence and security cooperation, recognising the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing regional security challenges.
The mutual ties and cooperation were discussed in a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) here.
Shehbaz, who is on a four-day visit to the kingdom, was accompanied by the 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 defence sectors.
Both the crown prince and the prime minister expressed satisfaction at the growing economic collaboration between the two nations. Shehbaz 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.
MBS 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.
Separately, the prime minister also met Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih and Head of the Joint Task Force for Economic Engagement Mohammad Al-Tuwaijri.
The bilateral economic cooperation was discussed in the meeting where both the countries agreed to further strengthen the bilateral economic partnership through structured engagements and swift execution of joint projects. 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 country’s strategic position and investment-friendly policies.
He emphasized Pakistan’s vast potential in energy, infrastructure, agriculture and technology, inviting Saudi businesses to explore opportunities under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
The Saudi minister and Task Force head expressed their country’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.
The prime minister was accompanied by the deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Punjab chief minister, Minister for Climate Change Musadik Malik and SIFC National Coordinator Lt Gen Sarfraz Ahmed.
The Saudi delegation included representatives of the Saudi Ministry of Investment and Joint Task Force for Economic Engagement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
Later, the prime minister arrived in Madina Munawara. On arrival, Madina Governor Prince Salman bin Sultan al-Saud received Shehbaz at the airport.
The premier was there to pay his respects at Roza of Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) and offer prayers and Nawafil in Masjid-e-Nabwi. He would offer special prayers for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.
Meanwhile, the prime minister expressed his satisfaction over Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) crossing 119,000 points for the first time in its history.
The positive direction of business in PSE reflected the growing confidence of traders and investors in the government’s economic policies, the prime minister said in a news release.
He remarked that the improving economic indicators and business environment during the past one year was possible due to the government’s economic policies. The government, he said, was providing all facilities on priority basis to provide a positive environment for business and investment in the country.
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