RIYADH/ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he was “deeply touched by the heart-warming welcome” he received in Riyadh, where Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Wednesday signed a landmark Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, pledging that any attack on one will be considered an attack on both.
In a post on X, Sharif described the unprecedented escort of his aircraft by Royal Saudi Air Force jets and the ceremonial guard of honour from Saudi troops as “a reflection of the abiding love and mutual respect between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.” He said his talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman covered “a wide range of issues,” including regional challenges, defence cooperation, and enhanced economic ties.
“My most cordial talks today with HRH the Crown Prince covered a wide range of issues, reviewing regional challenges & enhancing bilateral cooperation,” said Sharif.
According to a joint statement from Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s Office late Wednesday, the two leaders met at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh and reviewed their historic relationship, signing the pact that aims to strengthen joint deterrence and deepen security collaboration. Sharif praised the Crown Prince’s “vision and leadership for the Muslim world” and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding Saudi investments, trade, and business partnerships.
“I deeply admire HRH’s vision & leadership that he provides to the Muslim world,” said the prime minister of Pakistan.