ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan engaged in discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia during an exclusive iftar dinner in Makkah on Sunday. The Saudi premier had extended a special invitation to PM Sharif, underlining the depth of bilateral ties between the two nations.
The iftar dinner, also attended by Prime Minister of Bahrain, Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and exchange of sentiments. PM Sharif conveyed his heartfelt prayers and wishes for the well-being of His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, acknowledging the warm reception extended by Saudi authorities.
During the discussions, both Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and PM Sharif expressed their mutual appreciation for the enduring fraternal relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. They emphasised the importance of strengthening these ties further, reflecting the shared interests and aspirations of the two nations.
Following the iftar dinner, a bilateral meeting ensued, followed by a one-on-one session between the two leaders, where they delved into matters of mutual concern and interest.
Prior to the diplomatic engagements, PM Sharif, along with key members of his cabinet, had embarked on a journey to Makkah to perform Umrah. The Pakistan delegation comprised Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif, Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.