Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to Visit Saudi Arabia
Breaking news from Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to embark on his first foreign visit since his election, with a trip to Saudi Arabia scheduled from April 6-8. The Pakistani foreign office confirmed that Sharif is expected to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his visit.
Strong Ties Between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have a long history of strong trade, defense, and cultural ties. With over 2.7 million Pakistani expatriates calling the Kingdom home, Saudi Arabia is also the top destination for remittances to Pakistan.
Agenda for the Visit
During his visit, Prime Minister Sharif will discuss issues of mutual interest with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister HRH Mohammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz. The leaders will also exchange views on regional and global developments. Sharif will be accompanied by key ministers and will also perform Umrah and offer prayers at the Masjid Nabwi Al-Sharif in Madinah.
Commitment to Strong Relations
The foreign office emphasized that the leadership of both countries is committed to advancing fraternal ties and fostering mutually rewarding economic and investment relations. However, the Saudi government has not yet commented on the visit or its agenda.
Past Visits to Saudi Arabia
This is not the first time Sharif has visited Saudi Arabia. During his first term as PM in October 2022, he met with the crown prince and attended the Saudi Future Investment Initiative Summit. The upcoming visit is expected to further strengthen the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
• This article originally appeared on Arab News Pakistan