By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to embark on his first international visit since taking office, with a three-day trip to Saudi Arabia starting Saturday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Friday.
The visit, scheduled from April 6 to 8, will see the premier joined by key cabinet members, including the ministers for foreign affairs, defence, information, and economic affairs.
High on the agenda is a meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to deliberate on mutual interests and regional as well as global developments.
“The Prime Minister is expected to meet the Crown Prince and Prime Minister HRH Mohammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz and discuss issues of mutual interest,” the foreign office said in a statement announcing the PM’s visit. “The leaders will also exchange views on regional and global developments.”
This diplomatic venture underscores a mutual commitment to bolstering the fraternal and economic ties between the two nations, deeply rooted in shared religious and cultural values.
“The leadership of both countries is committed to advancing the fraternal ties and mutually rewarding economic and investment relations,” the foreign office said.
The premier’s itinerary also includes performing Umrah and offering prayers at the revered Masjid-i-Nabwi.
The trip follows PM Shehbaz’s assertion on March 16 that Pakistan is keen on elevating its historic ties with Saudi Arabia to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This sentiment was echoed during a congratulatory call from Crown Prince Salman upon PM Shehbaz’s assumption of office, where the premier reaffirmed the enduring solidarity between the two countries.
Sharif last traveled to Saudi Arabia during his first term as PM in October 2022. He met the crown prince during the visit and also attended the Saudi Future Investment Initiative Summit.
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