Pakistan-Saudi Defence Pact Symbol of Brotherhood and Mutual Trust: PM Shehbaz

Islamabad:  Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed that the Pakistan–Saudi Arabia defence cooperation agreement reflects the deep-rooted brotherhood, mutual trust, and shared vision between the two nations. He stressed that by working together, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia can carve out a stronger and more influential role in the global community.

The prime minister was addressing a luncheon at the Prime Minister’s House in honour of the visiting Saudi delegation, led by Prince Mansour bin Mohammad bin Saad Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi-Pakistan Joint Business Council. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, senior officials, and leading figures from the business community.

Welcoming Prince Mansour, the prime minister said it was a pleasure to see him again, describing the gathering as “a family coming together.” He recalled his deep and enduring ties with the Kingdom, sharing that his first visit to Saudi Arabia took place in the 1960s, and since then, he had witnessed its extraordinary transformation.

Describing his recent visit to Riyadh as “unique and unforgettable,” the premier lauded the warm hospitality extended by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Saudi people. “The Saudi leadership and people have always stood by Pakistan in every trial and difficulty,” he said, reiterating that “every Muslim is ready to sacrifice for the sanctity of the holy sites.”

Shehbaz Sharif underscored that the recently signed defence cooperation agreement symbolizes the trust and solidarity between the two brotherly nations. “We are true brothers, and a brother always stands by his brother. We will always remain the protectors of Makkah and Madinah,” he affirmed.

Highlighting the expanding scope of bilateral engagement, the prime minister said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are determined to strengthen cooperation across trade, investment, research, and innovation. “This is a time of golden opportunities,” he said, urging both sides to translate their shared vision into tangible progress.

The premier praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s bold and forward-looking leadership, which he said had brought remarkable change and modernization to Saudi society. “Time and circumstances wait for no one. We must prepare ourselves for emerging challenges and seize the opportunities ahead. With unity and collaboration, we can secure a strong position in the world,” he added.

Expressing confidence in Pakistan’s capable economic and administrative team, Shehbaz said the government was ready to implement all agreed initiatives, while Saudi counterparts were equally committed to advancing joint ventures.

Prince Mansour, in his remarks, shared that prior to his visit to Islamabad, he had met senior Saudi ministers to discuss potential strategic projects in Pakistan. He said the Saudi business community was eager to invest in Pakistan, appreciating Prime Minister Shehbaz’s vision to deepen bilateral cooperation in priority sectors.

Reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to shared prosperity, Prince Mansour said Riyadh stood ready to work closely with Islamabad to realize mutually beneficial goals.