Islamabad, April 16, 2024 – Pakistan and Saudi Arabia reaffirmed their dedication to bolstering economic relations on Tuesday, as Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud met with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
The high-level meeting between Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the commitment of both nations to fortify bilateral ties, with a particular focus on enhancing mutually beneficial economic cooperation. The Saudi delegation, led by Prince Faisal bin Farhan, arrived in Islamabad on Monday for a two-day visit aimed at expediting the implementation of agreements reached between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman during their recent meeting in Makkah Al Mukarramah, geared towards boosting bilateral economic cooperation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, recalling his fruitful discussions with the Saudi crown prince, emphasized the significance of the Saudi delegation’s visit in further solidifying the economic partnership between the two countries. He stressed the need for both sides to work closely to expedite the initial phase of Saudi investments in Pakistan under the newly established arrangement.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude for the continued support of the Saudi leadership and extended his heartfelt wishes to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to its enduring fraternal, economic, and strategic ties with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the longstanding solidarity between the two nations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also briefed the Saudi delegation on the initiatives of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) aimed at promoting investment in Pakistan. He highlighted the crucial role played by Chief of the Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir and the collaboration of all institutions in facilitating investment in the country through SIFC.
In response, the Saudi foreign minister expressed appreciation for the warm reception extended to his delegation and reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s deep-rooted and close ties with Pakistan. He reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening its strategic and economic partnership with Pakistan, underscoring the importance attached to bilateral relations.
Furthermore, the meeting also addressed the escalating situation in the occupied Palestinian Territories, reflecting the shared concern of both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia regarding regional developments.
The discussions between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia underscored the mutual desire to deepen economic cooperation and explore avenues for further collaboration in various sectors. As both countries continue to prioritize economic growth and development, such engagements serve as vital platforms for enhancing bilateral relations and fostering greater prosperity for their peoples.
