Pakistan PM, other heads of state invited to witness ‘North Thunder’

Saudi Gazette report JEDDAH — Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and a large number of other heads of state have been invited to witness the closing ceremony of the ongoing military exercise ‘North Thunder’. Sharif will undertake a three-day official visit to Saudi Arabia from March 9 to 11, according to media reports in Pakistan. Troops from 21 countries are participating in the exercise in the northern region of Saudi Arabia. The “North Thunder” exercise involving ground, air, and naval forces sends a clear message that Saudi Arabia and its allies stand united in confronting all challenges and preserving peace and stability in the region. The exercise commenced on Feb. 14 and would conclude on March 10 near King Khaled Military City in northeastern Saudi Arabia, with the participation of various military disciplines of artillery, tanks, and infantry, and air defense systems as well as naval forces. Sharif is also likely to attend the inaugural summit of the 34-nation Islamic Military Alliance scheduled to take place on March 10. According to the Pakistan media reports, Sharif would possibly discuss with Saudi leaders Pakistan’s role in the 34-nation military alliance, Saudi Arabia’s financial assistance and planned investment in Pakistan, regional issues and other facets of bilateral ties.