Pakistan PM and army chief begin three-day Saudi visit

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir arrived in Saudi Arabia on August 6 for a three-day official visit aimed at reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations. The high-level delegation, which also includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, is scheduled to meet with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh.

The visit occurs amid heightened regional tensions, including maritime security threats in the Red Sea and ongoing instability across the Persian Gulf. Discussions are expected to focus on consolidating bilateral relations, deepening strategic cooperation, and coordinating on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Officials stated the visit reflects the longstanding partnership rooted in mutual trust and brotherhood between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

A key context for the talks is Pakistan's recent commitment to a Saudi-led Multinational Maritime Defence Coalition, announced on July 30, aimed at safeguarding commercial shipping lanes through the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Pakistan is among 14 countries that have expressed support for...