Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Jeddah on Thursday for an urgent meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as conflict intensifies across the Middle East.
Key Highlights
- PM Shehbaz Sharif landed at Jeddah’s Royal Terminal for a high-level official visit.
- The meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focuses on regional security and rising tensions.
- Pakistan aims to facilitate a ceasefire and promote dialogue between conflicting nations.
- The visit follows a strategic defense meeting held by Pakistan’s military leadership in Riyadh earlier this month.
High-Level Welcome in Jeddah
Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Abdulaziz, received Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at King Abdulaziz International Airport. The Prime Minister is leading a brief but significant diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia. This visit happens while Gulf nations face increased security risks due to ongoing hostilities in the region. Ambassador Ahmad Farooq and other top diplomats were also present to welcome the Pakistani delegation.
Focus on Peace and Stability
The primary goal of the meeting between PM Shehbaz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is to discuss the escalating Middle East war. Both leaders want to find ways to reduce violence and protect regional stability. The Prime Minister’s Office stated that Pakistan remains committed to playing a positive role in global diplomacy. Islamabad is advocating for three main points: respecting national sovereignty, following international law, and returning to the negotiating table.
Strategic Defense Partnership
This trip follows a recent visit by Field Marshal Asim Munir, who met with the Saudi Defense Minister to discuss security threats. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement last year, strengthening their military ties. Government spokespersons have stated that Pakistan will support Saudi Arabia whenever needed, emphasizing that the two nations operate on a principle of mutual protection and long-term partnership.
Pakistan has recently acted as a diplomatic bridge, helping to prevent further escalation in the region. The Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed in 2025 provides a formal framework for military cooperation between Islamabad and Riyadh.
