PRIME Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) marked a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations and shaping global agendas. Accompanied by Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar and other important cabinet members, PM Shehbaz Sharif addressed the World Economic Forum (WEF) and engaged in sideline meetings with world leadership, including a pivotal meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) of KSA.
At the WEF, PM Shehbaz Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to economic growth, regional stability and global cooperation. He highlighted the country’s progress in overcoming economic challenges and its potential for investment and trade. The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of international collaboration to address pressing global issues, such as climate change, energy security and food security.
On the sidelines of the WEF, PM Shehbaz Sharif held meetings with various world leaders, including: – Crown Prince MBS of KSA, where they discussed ways to enhance economic cooperation, boost investment and strengthen strategic partnerships. – President Mahmoud Abbas of Palestine, where they discussed the importance of a two-state solution and Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. – President Emmanuel Macron of France, where they discussed cooperation in trade, energy and security. – Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany, where they discussed investment opportunities and economic cooperation. – Secretary-General António Guterres of the United Nations, where they discussed global issues and Pakistan’s contribution to peacekeeping efforts. – President David Malpass of the World Bank, where they discussed economic development and investment opportunities.
PM Shehbaz Sharif also met with different portfolio holders of the KSA cabinet, including the Ministers of Finance, Energy and Investment. They assured him of all sorts of cooperation to enhance investment in Pakistan and were directed by MBS to increase investment as much as possible. This visit marks the second meeting between PM Shehbaz Sharif and MBS within a short period of one month, demonstrating the growing strength of Pakistan-KSA relations. Crown Prince MBS is also expected to visit Pakistan soon, which will further cement the bilateral partnership.
The visit to KSA was a strategic move by PM Shehbaz Sharif to reinforce Pakistan’s relations with a key regional partner and global player. The outcome of the visit is expected to have a positive impact on Pakistan’s economy, regional stability and global standing. The meetings with world leadership demonstrated PM Shehbaz Sharif’s commitment to engaging with international partners to address shared challenges and shape global agendas.
In conclusion, PM Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to KSA was a game changer for Pakistan’s economy and foreign relations. The visit’s outcomes will have far-reaching implications for Pakistan’s economic growth, regional stability and global influence. This visit is considered one of the most successful visits by a Pakistani Premier to KSA in recent decades.
—The writer is a Supreme Court lawyer and former member & Chairman Standing Committee of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Council. Islamabad
Email: [email protected]
