ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has hailed Pakistan’s deep-rooted relationship with Saudi Arabia, describing the recently signed defence cooperation agreement as a reflection of “brotherhood, mutual trust, and shared destiny.”
Speaking at a luncheon held at the Prime Minister’s House on Wednesday in honour of a visiting Saudi delegation led by Prince Mansour bin Mohammad bin Saad Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi-Pakistan Joint Business Council, the premier said the two nations have stood by each other through every challenge and will continue to do so in the years ahead.
The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, senior officials, and leading business figures from both countries.
Shehbaz Sharif warmly welcomed Prince Mansour, saying it was “a pleasure to meet again as one family bound by faith, friendship, and shared purpose.” He reminisced about his first visit to Saudi Arabia in the 1960s, noting how he had personally witnessed the Kingdom’s extraordinary transformation over the decades.
Recalling his recent trip to Riyadh, the prime minister described it as “a unique and unforgettable experience,” praising the generous hospitality extended by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Saudi people.
“The Saudi leadership and people have always stood by Pakistan through every trial and difficulty,” he said, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the protection of the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Highlighting the significance of the new defence agreement, Shehbaz said it formalises a long-standing bond built on faith and fraternity. “We are true brothers,” he remarked. “A brother always stands by his brother and Pakistan will always remain a defender of the sanctity of the holy sites.”
The prime minister further emphasised that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are now entering a new phase of partnership focused on trade, investment, research, and innovation. “This is a time of golden opportunities,” he said. “Together, we can transform our shared economic vision into tangible progress.”
He also commended Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s bold and visionary leadership, crediting him for ushering in sweeping reforms that have modernised Saudi Arabia’s society and economy.
“Time and circumstances wait for no one,” Shehbaz noted. “With unity, hard work, and mutual cooperation, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia can together secure a stronger position in the global community.”
