Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s upcoming two-day journey to Saudi Arabia, commencing on Saturday night, holds significant importance in fostering bilateral relations and advancing key development initiatives between the two nations. Alongside performing Umrah, PM Shehbaz is slated to engage in crucial discussions with Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his visit to Jeddah. These discussions are expected to encompass various projects aimed at enhancing cooperation and mutual investment across multiple sectors, including agriculture.

One of the anticipated highlights of the meeting is PM Shehbaz extending a formal invitation to the Saudi Crown Prince to visit Pakistan, further solidifying diplomatic ties and exploring avenues for enhanced collaboration. Additionally, discussions are likely to revolve around finalizing several development projects, with particular attention to Saudi Arabia’s potential investment of $1 billion in the Reko Diq project, a significant endeavor that holds promise for economic growth and infrastructure development in Pakistan.

The Prime Minister’s itinerary, along with the accompanying delegation comprising federal ministers and top officials, is expected to be confirmed shortly before departure. Before embarking on his journey, PM Shehbaz will hold consultations with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif in Lahore, aligning strategies and priorities for the visit. Notably, this marks PM Shehbaz’s inaugural official trip to Saudi Arabia since assuming office in March, symbolizing a renewed commitment to strengthening the longstanding ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.