ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said that the defense cooperation agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is based on brotherhood and mutual trust, and emphasized that both nations, by working together, can secure a stronger position in the global community.
He was addressing a luncheon held here at the Prime Minister House in honor of the visiting Saudi delegation led by Prince Mansour bin Mohammad bin Saad Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi-Pakistan Joint Business Council. The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, senior officials and prominent business figures.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly welcomed Prince Mansour, saying it was a pleasure to see him again and noting that “today we are gathered here as one family.”
He recalled his long-standing relationship with Saudi Arabia and shared that he first visited the Kingdom in the 1960s and had since witnessed its remarkable progress. He described his recent visit to Riyadh as “unique and unforgettable”, and praised the warm hospitality provided by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Saudi people.
“The Saudi leadership and people have always supported Pakistan in every trial and difficulty,” he said, reaffirming that every Muslim is ready to sacrifice for the sanctity of the holy places.
The prime minister underlined that the defense pact between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia formalizes a relationship based on deep brotherhood. “We are true brothers, and a brother always supports his brother. We will always be protectors of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina,” he declared.
Highlighting the growing scope of bilateral cooperation, the prime minister said both countries are determined to enhance ties based on trade, investment, research and innovation. “This is a time of golden opportunity. Together we can transform our shared business vision into reality,” he said.
The prime minister praised the dynamic and visionary leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and credited him with transforming Saudi society. “Time and circumstances wait for no one. We must prepare for new challenges and opportunities. With cooperation and unity, we can establish a firm place in the global community,” he added.
