Jeddah (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has voiced deep appreciation for the continued support extended by Saudi Arabia towards strengthening Pakistan’s economic position during his meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, according to an official statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
As per the PMO, the interaction between the two leaders remained warm and constructive, spanning close to two hours, during which they exchanged views on the shifting regional dynamics as well as the state of bilateral ties.
During a “warm and cordial” engagement in Jeddah with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, which lasted close to two hours, the two sides held in-depth consultations on the rapidly changing regional landscape.
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering backing of the Kingdom in light of the recent escalation in the region, stating that “the people of Pakistan stand shoulder to shoulder with our Saudi brethren.”
He also expressed heartfelt condolences over the tragic loss of lives.
Joined by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, the prime minister expressed profound sorrow over the loss of precious lives in the recent escalation and affirmed that the people of Pakistan stood firmly alongside their Saudi brothers.
He also briefed the Saudi leadership on Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives that helped pave the way for the US-Iran ceasefire, as well as the most recent round of “historic” dialogue between the United States and Iran held in Islamabad.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve, the prime minister said the country would continue to encourage Washington and Tehran to move towards a durable agreement that ensures long-term peace and stability in the region, while also thanking the crown prince for backing Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace.
Leading a senior delegation, Prime Minister Shehbaz is currently on an official tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye from April 15 to 18.
Earlier, upon landing in Jeddah, he was welcomed by Prince Saud bin Mushaal bin Abdulaziz, Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ahmad Farooq.
The Saudi crown prince commended the constructive contributions of Prime Minister Shehbaz and Asim Munir in advancing the peace process.
In discussions on bilateral ties, the prime minister conveyed appreciation for the crown prince, acknowledging the Kingdom’s consistent support in strengthening Pakistan’s economic stability.
He highlighted that both nations share a distinctive bond as strategic defence partners under the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement.
Both sides reaffirmed their determination to further deepen this long-standing partnership and maintain close coordination on matters of shared interest.
In a post on X, Deputy Prime Minister Dar described the interaction as “marked by warmth, brotherhood, and a shared vision for a stronger Pakistan–Saudi Arabia partnership.”
He added that PM Shehbaz underscored the deep-rooted relationship between the two countries, built on faith, trust, and mutual respect, while exploring ways to expand cooperation across various sectors.
“Saudi Arabia holds a special place in the hearts of Pakistanis, and we remain committed to strengthening this historic and fraternal relationship for generations to come,” Dar said.