Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday to represent Pakistan at the Arab-Islamic Summit, where he aims to advocate for peace and Palestinian rights amid the escalating crisis in Gaza.
Upon his arrival at Riyadh’s Royal Airport Terminal, the Prime Minister was warmly received by Prince Muhammad bin Abdul Rahman bin Abdulaziz, the Deputy Governor of Riyadh, along with Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and other senior diplomatic representatives, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan. Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi are accompanying him on this critical visit.
Ahead of the summit, Shehbaz Sharif posted on X (formerly Twitter), expressing his intent to join Muslim leaders in addressing the situation in Gaza. He highlighted the urgent need for solidarity within the Muslim community to support Palestinian rights, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to promoting peace in the region.
At the summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz is expected to reiterate Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestine and advocate for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to halt the violence in Gaza, which has drawn international outcry. A government spokesperson underscored Pakistan’s stance, stating, “Pakistan’s commitment to Palestinian rights remains firm, and we continue to call for an end to the ongoing violence in Gaza.”
Additionally, Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled for talks with officials from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Arab League, who are also gathering in Riyadh to discuss pressing regional issues.
In a statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized the strong partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, noting the progress in discussions on areas of mutual interest, including solar energy, mining, agriculture, and investment. His visit builds on recent high-level meetings between Pakistani and Saudi officials, with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman recently reaffirming support for Pakistan’s development goals and investment potential.
This visit follows engagements between Pakistan’s military leadership and Saudi officials, including talks led by Army Chief General Asim Munir on regional security, defense collaboration, and strengthening ties.
Shehbaz Sharif’s participation in the Arab-Islamic Summit reflects Pakistan’s enduring dedication to the Palestinian cause and its strategic role in the Middle East, underscoring Islamabad’s foreign policy priorities.
