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Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is traveling to Saudi Arabia for a two-day visit amid escalating tensions in the Gulf region. The trip represents Islamabad’s effort to secure critical economic assistance while managing complex strategic relationships in a volatile area. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry stated the visit aims to expand cooperation between the nations on regional and international matters.
The delegation, which includes the country’s army chief and foreign minister, will meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and addressing the current regional situation. Pakistan seeks increased financial support from Riyadh, including approval for a deferred oil facility to address its economic challenges. In exchange, Pakistani officials are expected to reaffirm their defense commitments under the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed in September 2025.
The visit highlights Pakistan’s delicate balancing act between multiple roles: serving as Saudi Arabia’s primary security partner, mediating between the United States and Iran, and addressing maritime security threats in the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan recently joined a Saudi-led naval coalition aimed at protecting shipping lanes from attacks by Iran-backed Houthi forces. The presence of the army chief underscores the security dimension of these discussions, signaling Islamabad’s commitment to the defense partnership while attempting to avoid appearing directly opposed to Iran.
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Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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