In a gesture of warm hospitality, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman hosted an Iftar at the Al-Safa Palace in Makkah for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his delegation, who are currently on a three-day visit to the kingdom.
The event brought together dignitaries from Pakistan and Bahrain, fostering discussions on bilateral relations and matters of mutual interest.
According to a report by the Saudi Gazette, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman personally welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz and his delegation upon their arrival at the Al-Safa Palace. The gathering marked a significant occasion for both nations to strengthen ties and explore avenues for cooperation, particularly in trade and investment.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz and the Saudi Crown Prince engaged in discussions covering various aspects of bilateral relations, emphasizing the importance of enhancing economic cooperation and trade between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Matters related to Pak-Saudi bilateral trade and investment were among the key topics deliberated upon during the event.
A statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office highlighted the special invitation extended by the crown prince to Prime Minister Shehbaz and his delegation for the Iftar, underscoring the significance of the occasion in fostering diplomatic relations between the two countries. Notably, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and members of the federal cabinet were also in attendance at the Iftar, reflecting the depth of the bilateral ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Saudi Arabia commenced on Saturday, April 6, and is scheduled to conclude on April 8. Accompanied by a delegation comprising federal ministers and officials, the premier’s itinerary includes engagements aimed at enhancing cooperation and exploring avenues for investment and development projects.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Shehbaz and his delegation arrived in Makkah from Madina, where they performed Umrah, underscoring the spiritual significance of the visit alongside diplomatic engagements. Additionally, the premier offered prayers at Masjid-e-Nabvi and paid respects at the Roza-e-Rasool (PBUH), further deepening the religious ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Sources close to the development revealed that discussions during the meeting with the Saudi crown prince encompassed various projects and initiatives aimed at fostering economic cooperation and development. Prime Minister Shehbaz also took the opportunity to extend an invitation to the Saudi Prime Minister to visit Pakistan, further strengthening bilateral ties.
Amid the visit, both nations are poised to finalize multiple development projects, while also exploring avenues for cooperation in sectors such as agriculture. Sources indicated that Saudi Arabia’s investment of $1 billion in the Reko Diq project is among the significant developments expected to materialize during the visit, highlighting the mutual commitment to enhancing economic ties.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share longstanding fraternal relations, deeply rooted in religious and cultural affinity. The visit reaffirms the commitment of both nations’ leadership to advancing these ties and fostering mutually beneficial economic and investment relations.
As Prime Minister Shehbaz’s visit continues, it is anticipated that further initiatives aimed at bolstering cooperation and partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will be explored, ushering in a new era of collaboration and prosperity for both nations.
