ISLAMABAD, Aug 27 (Alliance News): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan’s appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s steadfast support, financial assistance and role in promoting regional peace and stability.
The prime minister expressed these views during a farewell call by Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki at the PM House following the completion of his diplomatic assignment.
PM Shehbaz congratulated Al-Malki on completing his tenure and appreciated his contribution to strengthening Pakistan-Saudi Arabia’s longstanding fraternal and strategic relations.
The prime minister conveyed his warm regards and best wishes for the health and well-being of Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.
He also wished the outgoing ambassador success in his future endeavours.
Al-Malki thanked the prime minister and the Pakistani government for the warmth, cooperation and hospitality extended to him throughout his tenure.
The ambassador described his stay in Pakistan as a memorable and rewarding experience and reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening ties between the two countries.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia maintain close cooperation in diplomacy, defence and economic affairs, with Riyadh remaining a key strategic partner for Islamabad.
The bilateral relationship has gained further significance amid growing regional security concerns and increased defence cooperation.
In September 2025, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement under which aggression against either country would be treated as aggression against both.
The agreement built on decades of military cooperation, including defence training, technical assistance and exchanges.
On August 7, 2026, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye also signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, under which an armed attack against any one of the three countries would be regarded as an attack against all.
The three countries are also seeking greater coordination on maritime security and protection of regional shipping and energy routes amid heightened tensions in the region.
Saudi Arabia’s support for Pakistan also extends to the economic sector.
In April 2026, Riyadh provided Pakistan an additional $3 billion deposit and extended its existing $5 billion deposit facility through 2028.
The fresh deposit was received in two tranches, with $2 billion transferred on April 15 and the remaining $1 billion on April 20.
The financial support helped strengthen Pakistan’s external financing position as Islamabad continued efforts to build its foreign exchange reserves under its $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.
Saudi Arabia has repeatedly assisted Pakistan during periods of economic pressure through financial deposits and deferred-payment oil facilities.
