Leaders reaffirm commitment to strengthening economic relations between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia
High-level talks in Riyadh
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Monday, using the sidelines of the Future Investment Initiative (FII9) to review ties and chart new economic cooperation. The meeting at Al Yamamah Palace included Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and members of the premier’s senior cabinet team.
Focus on trade, investment, and new sectors
Both sides agreed to accelerate projects that expand trade and investment and to widen collaboration beyond traditional areas. Discussions covered energy, technology, human capital, and broader economic connectivity, with both leaders reaffirming a shared goal of translating political goodwill into bankable ventures.
Regional and international outlook
The conversation also touched on regional dynamics and global developments, with the two leaders aligning on issues of mutual interest and continued coordination.
Pakistan’s presence at FII9
The prime minister is leading a high-powered delegation to FII9—Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and special assistants Tariq Fatemi and Bilal bin Saqib among them. This year’s forum, themed “The Key to Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers of Growth,” brings together investors, policymakers, and innovators to explore innovation, sustainability, inclusive growth, and shifting geopolitics.
Economic diplomacy in action
According to the Foreign Office, Shehbaz will meet Saudi officials and other global leaders to promote investment in Pakistan and pursue partnerships across trade, energy, and workforce development. Islamabad frames the visit as a push to advance economic diplomacy and forge strategic ties in technology and sustainable development.
Strategic context
The outreach follows a year of closer engagement between Islamabad and Riyadh, including a landmark defence accord signed on September 18, under which an attack on one would be regarded as an attack on both—underscoring the deepening strategic alignment alongside economic ambitions.
