Pakistan–Saudi Relations Gain Momentum as Shehbaz Sharif Heads to Riyadh

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia’s bilateral ties are entering a new phase of cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, and the energy sector. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to visit Riyadh at the invitation of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman — a trip being viewed as highly significant for both nations.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office announced that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will be in Saudi Arabia from October 27 to 29, where he will participate in the 9th Future Investment Initiative (FII) Summit. The visit aims to strengthen economic relations, enhance energy cooperation, and explore new investment opportunities, while also promoting economic diplomacy with global leaders.

According to the statement, the Pakistani premier will hold several high-level meetings with Saudi government officials during his stay. Discussions are expected to focus on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, and energy, as well as addressing geopolitical developments, regional stability, and mutual economic interests. Shehbaz Sharif will also engage with leaders from other participating countries and heads of international organizations attending the summit.

The Foreign Office described the trip as part of Pakistan’s broader economic diplomacy initiative. It emphasized that Pakistan seeks to build strategic partnerships in investment, technology, and sustainable development. Strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia is seen as a key step toward unlocking new economic opportunities across the Middle East.

Earlier, during Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Riyadh on September 18, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a landmark defense agreement. Under the pact, an attack on either country would be considered an attack on both, marking a significant enhancement in mutual defense cooperation. The agreement also includes joint collaboration among the two nations’ army, navy, and air force, elevating Pakistan–Saudi relations to new heights in the fields of security and defense.