Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman warmly welcomed Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at Mina Palace on Friday during the Pakistani premier’s official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The two leaders exchanged Eid al-Azha greetings and held discussions focused on strengthening the long-standing relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Their talks emphasized deeper cooperation in the political, economic, and cultural sectors, reaffirming their commitment to expanding bilateral ties.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed sincere gratitude for the Kingdom’s continued support and hospitality, while Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman conveyed enthusiasm for enhanced collaboration between the two nations.
As part of the visit, the Prime Minister attended a special luncheon hosted by the Crown Prince, who also serves as the Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia. Prince Mohammed bin Salman personally received PM Shehbaz and accompanied him to the event, which was attended by senior leaders from the Middle East, including civil and military officials.
Spiritual Significance of the Visit
On Thursday night, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, along with Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and a high-level delegation, performed Umrah in Makkah. In a rare honor, the doors of the Holy Kaaba were opened exclusively for the Pakistani delegation, allowing them to offer special prayers inside.
The delegation prayed for Pakistan’s economic progress, social welfare, and peace, acknowledging the outcomes of the "Bunyan-um-Marsoos" initiative. They also offered heartfelt prayers for the oppressed people of Kashmir and Palestine, highlighting Pakistan’s consistent commitment to Muslim unity and solidarity.
Key Delegation Members
- Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister: Mohammad Ishaq Dar
- Interior Minister: Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi
- Information Minister: Attaullah Tarar
The visit served as a major diplomatic engagement and a spiritually significant occasion for the Pakistani leadership, further cementing the deep-rooted ties between the two brotherly nations.