Saudi Ambassador Meets Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Strengthen Bilateral Ties
Ansar M Bhatti / DNA
Islamabad, 2 Jul – The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malkiy, called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif today at the Prime Minister’s Office in Islamabad. The meeting underscored the deep-rooted fraternal relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, with discussions focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, and regional peace.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended his heartfelt regards to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reaffirming Pakistan’s strong bond with the Kingdom. The Prime Minister fondly recalled his recent telephone conversation with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on 24 June, during which both leaders reiterated their commitment to further strengthening Pak-Saudi ties.
Ambassador Al-Malkiy conveyed greetings from the Saudi leadership and expressed the Kingdom’s desire to expand cooperation with Pakistan in multiple sectors, including energy, infrastructure, and human resource development. He emphasized Saudi Arabia’s continued support for Pakistan’s economic stability and progress.
The meeting highlighted the importance of accelerating ongoing projects under the Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council (SPSCC), a high-level platform established to boost economic and strategic collaboration. Both sides reviewed progress on Saudi investments in Pakistan’s energy, mining, and agriculture sectors, with the Prime Minister assuring full facilitation for Saudi investors.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting peace and stability in the region, particularly its efforts in mediating global conflicts. He reiterated Pakistan’s support for the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, a transformative economic and social reform blueprint aimed at reducing Saudi Arabia’s dependence on oil and diversifying its economy.
The two leaders also exchanged views on key regional and international developments, including the situation in the Middle East and South Asia. The Prime Minister appreciated Saudi Arabia’s steadfast support on the Kashmir issue and its consistent stance at multilateral forums, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
Ambassador Al-Malkiy reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to playing a constructive role in fostering dialogue and stability in the region. He praised Pakistan’s efforts in counterterrorism and its contributions to regional peace.
Recognizing the significant Pakistani diaspora in Saudi Arabia, the Prime Minister thanked the Kingdom for its hospitality towards Pakistani expatriates, who contribute substantially to both economies. Discussions also touched upon enhancing cultural exchanges, religious tourism, and educational collaborations between the two nations.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to further elevate the historic Pakistan-Saudi relationship. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism about future collaborations, stating, “Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are bound by unbreakable ties of faith, brotherhood, and mutual trust. We are determined to take this partnership to new heights.”
Ambassador Al-Malkiy reiterated Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s prosperity and stability, assuring that the Kingdom would continue to stand by Pakistan in all circumstances.
The diplomatic engagement reflects the shared vision of both nations to deepen their strategic alliance and work together for regional peace and economic growth.
