JEDDAH, March 22, 2025 – Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening defence, security, and economic cooperation, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) in Jeddah.
Accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Shehbaz discussed expanding trade, investment, and energy collaboration with the Saudi leadership.
Key Discussions & Agreements
- Defence & Security: Both sides emphasized closer defence cooperation and recognized the importance of joint efforts in addressing regional security challenges.
- Economic Growth: Shehbaz welcomed Saudi investments, while MBS acknowledged Pakistan’s strategic economic potential.
- Regional Stability: Both leaders exchanged views on the geopolitical landscape and agreed to work towards regional peace and prosperity.
- Pakistani Community in KSA: MBS praised the role of Pakistani workers and assured measures to improve their welfare and opportunities.
- Cultural & Educational Exchange: The two nations vowed to enhance people-to-people ties and increase academic collaboration.
High-Level Economic Engagements
Shehbaz also met Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih and Head of the Joint Task Force for Economic Engagement Mohammad Al-Tuwaijri.
The discussions focused on:
- Boosting Saudi investments in energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and technology under Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
- Fast-tracking joint projects for mutual economic benefits.
- Strengthening institutional collaboration to accelerate investment initiatives.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a long-term economic partnership, with Saudi representatives expressing strong interest in expanding investments in Pakistan.
Prime Minister’s Visit to Madina
Following his meetings, Shehbaz arrived in Madina Munawara, where he was received by Madina Governor Prince Salman bin Sultan al-Saud. He offered prayers at Roza-e-Rasool (PBUH) in Masjid-e-Nabwi and prayed for Pakistan’s prosperity.
Pakistan Stock Exchange Hits Record High
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) crossed 119,000 points for the first time in history, reflecting investor confidence in the government’s economic policies. Shehbaz hailed the milestone, crediting it to the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy and attract investments.
With the visit marking a new chapter in Pak-Saudi ties, both nations are set to strengthen their strategic, economic, and security collaboration in the years ahead.
