ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia’s Minister for Defence Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud called on Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister House on Saturday, where they discussed bilateral matters, regional peace, security, and the situation in the region.
The meeting was also attended by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir. Discussions revolved around enhancing cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia in the defense and security realms.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the Saudi Prince on receiving Pakistan’s highest civil award, the Nishan-e-Pakistan.
He also expressed gratitude to the Saudi Defence Minister for gracing the Pakistan Day parade as a special guest. Prime Minister Shehbaz conveyed best wishes to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.
During the conversation with the Saudi Defence Minister, Prime Minister Shehbaz highlighted the deep-rooted and brotherly ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, based on shared religious, historical, and cultural affinities. He emphasized Pakistan’s immense value for its relations with Saudi Arabia, noting the latter’s steadfast support across various fronts, including economic upliftment.
Referring to the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), Prime Minister Shehbaz mentioned the establishment of a one-window operation for investors to streamline business activities and investments in Pakistan.
He highlighted abundant opportunities in Pakistan across sectors like agriculture, information technology, and mining, underscoring the importance of increased cooperation in defense and economy between the two nations.
The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s anticipation of the visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and extended a warm invitation.
In response, the Saudi Defence Minister congratulated Prime Minister Shehbaz on assuming office and thanked Pakistan for the invitation to the Pakistan Day parade.
He praised the capabilities of Pakistan’s armed forces showcased during the parade and deemed Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia as crucial for enhancing defense relations between the two countries.
