Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif concluded a landmark official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the invitation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, resulting in the signing of a historic Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) between the two brotherly nations.
The Prime Minister was accorded a warm reception by the Crown Prince at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, where the two leaders led their respective delegations in formal talks. At the outset of the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz extended greetings and best wishes for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, while underscoring Pakistan’s deep respect and fraternal bond with the Kingdom.
During their wide-ranging discussions, the two leaders reviewed the enduring, nearly eight-decade-long partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, characterized by Islamic solidarity, brotherhood, and close strategic ties. They also exchanged views on regional peace and security, mutual interests, and the strengthening of bilateral cooperation.
The highlight of the visit was the signing of the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA), reflecting the two countries’ unwavering resolve to enhance defence collaboration and ensure collective security. Under the pact, any act of aggression against one state will be deemed an act of aggression against both, reaffirming a united stance for peace, stability, and defence in the region and beyond.
Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed profound gratitude to the Crown Prince for the generous hospitality and warm welcome accorded to him and his delegation. He also conveyed heartfelt wishes for the continued health and wellbeing of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince, and the Saudi people, praying for their sustained prosperity and progress.
In turn, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman conveyed his sincere wishes for the health of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and for Pakistan’s ongoing development, stability, and prosperity.
The Prime Minister’s visit marks a significant milestone in the long-standing Pakistan-Saudi Arabia partnership, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to working closely for regional security, peace, and shared prosperity.
