Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH – Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, deputy premier and minister of defense, met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in Jeddah on Wednesday. This was the first foreign visit of Abbasi after succeeding Nawaz Sharif on Aug. 1, and it signifies the importance attached by Pakistan to its relationship with Saudi Arabia, according to Pakistani sources.

During the meeting, the two leaders reviewed the close bilateral relations between the Kingdom and Pakistan, and ways to further develop them in all fields, the Saudi Press Agency reported. They discussed the latest developments on the Islamic and international arenas. The leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern and the issues faced by Muslim Ummah. They agreed to continue dialogue and cooperation towards their shared goal of peace, security and development in the region and beyond.

The Crown Prince warmly welcomed Abbasi and his accompanying delegation. He acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts and sacrifices in its resolute fight against terrorism. The Crown Prince hoped that fraternal ties between the two countries will further prosper in future and underscored the importance Saudi Arabia attaches to a strong and stable Pakistan. The Crown Prince also hoped that Pakistan would overcome all challenges and continue its journey towards progress and prosperity.

On his part, Abbasi reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued and steadfast support for the Kingdom and its leadership. He lauded the astute leadership of the Crown Prince, in particular his Vision 2030 for Saudi Arabia’s development. The prime minister assured the Crown Prince of continued cooperation and collaboration to the benefit of both countries.

Abbasi recounted the huge sacrifices and extraordinary efforts being made by Pakistan as a nation to root out terrorism and bring peace and stability. He also expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed Pakistan’s pledge to support the Kingdom’s sovereignty.

The prime minister was also briefed about the arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims for this year’s Haj. The meeting was attended by Minister of Interior Prince Abdul Aziz Bin Saud Bin Naif; Minister of State and Member of the Cabinet Dr. Musaed Al-Ayban, Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir; Fahd Al-Isa, advisor at the Royal Court and general supervisor of the defense minister’s office; Raafat Al-Sabbagh, advisor at the Royal Court; Pakistani Finance Minister Ishaq Dar; Pakistani Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif and a number of officials.

Earlier, upon arrival at King Abdulaziz International Airport, Abbasi was received by Deputy Emir of Makkah Abdullah Bin Bandar. Ambassador of Pakistan to Saudi Arabia Khan Hasham Bin Saddique, Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf Ahmad Al Maliki, Consul General of Pakistan Shehryar Akbar Khan and other officers of the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah were also present.