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Pakistan’s PM to Asharq Al-Awsat: We Are Crafting Enduring Strategic Partnership with Saudi Arabia

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Pakistan’s PM to Asharq Al-Awsat: We Are Crafting Enduring Strategic Partnership with Saudi Arabia

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia enjoy robust economic, political, and defense ties, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif affirmed in an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat.
The Pakistani premier emphasized that both nations share common views on regional issues and are working closely to transform this relationship into a mutually beneficial economic and strategic partnership.
Sharif revealed that Pakistan eagerly anticipates the upcoming visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
“Islamabad is meticulously preparing to ensure the success of this visit,” he stated, predicting that it will be a “turning point in the history of bilateral cooperation, culminating in a strengthened economic and strategic partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.”
Earlier, on May 19, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan had a phone call with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister.
According to the Saudi Foreign Ministry, the discussions involved “preliminary arrangements” for the Crown Prince’s visit to Pakistan, with the date to be determined later by mutual agreement.
Sharif, re-elected as Pakistan’s Prime Minister in March 2024, made Saudi Arabia his first foreign visit. On April 7, he met Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Makkah.
Later in April, he returned to Riyadh for the World Economic Forum, meeting the Crown Prince again.
In mid-April, a high-level Saudi delegation led by Saudi Arabia’s top diplomat visited Islamabad.
The team included ministers from key sectors such as investment, agriculture, environment, industry, and energy, meeting with top Pakistani officials to boost cooperation.
Saudi Arabia, Pakistan Strengthen Defense Ties
Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have stepped up their defense talks recently. Saudi Assistant Defense Minister Talal Al-Otaibi met with Pakistani officials in mid-April, marking the fourth meeting in less than a month.
This followed the Saudi Crown Prince’s meeting with Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir on March 20 and Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman’s visit to Pakistan on March 23.
“A high-level Saudi military delegation discussed long-term defense cooperation with our military leaders,” Sharif told Asharq Al-Awsat.
“We assured them of our full support for future Saudi investments in Pakistan,” he said, adding that these talks highlight the commitment to regional and global peace and security.
Sharif emphasized the deep-rooted relationship between the two countries.
“Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have always stood together. Our bond goes beyond geography and includes strong religious and cultural ties,” said the prime minister.
“Saudi Arabia hosts the largest number of Pakistani expatriates, and frequent visits by our leaders show the importance of our relationship,” he noted.
Addressing reports about Saudi investments in Pakistan, Sharif confirmed that during his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, he reaffirmed commitment to facilitating investments.
“The follow-up visit by the Saudi Foreign Minister and his team emphasized building a lasting strategic partnership,” asserted the premier.
Saudi Arabia, Pakistan to Boost Cricket Cooperation
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are looking to boost their collaboration in sports, especially cricket, where Pakistan excels internationally. As Saudi Arabia’s sports sector grows, Sharif emphasized both countries' commitment to harnessing the potential of sports cooperation.
Sharif pointed to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed last year between the Saudi and Pakistani football federations. This agreement aims to strengthen ties and promote sports growth in both nations.
He also mentioned Pakistan’s efforts to develop its football scene through its first international partnership with Saudi Arabia.
Sharif stated that Pakistan’s extensive experience in cricket and the success of the Pakistan Super League can greatly benefit Saudi Arabia in developing its cricket scene.
“Saudi Arabia is eager to enhance its cricket capabilities, and Pakistan’s rich cricket expertise will be invaluable,” Sharif said. He highlighted the enthusiasm and talent of Pakistani youth, noting the need for training support where both nations excel.
Sharif also emphasized the potential of sports diplomacy between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, urging both countries to maximize this opportunity for mutual benefit.
Pakistan Concerned About Middle East Escalation
Sharif expressed deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East. He stressed the importance of international efforts to prevent further conflict and urged for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Regarding recent events, Sharif noted: “The Israeli attack on the Iranian consular office in Syria was a significant escalation in an already troubled region. It violated international diplomatic agreements and laws.”
He also highlighted the serious consequences when the UN Security Council fails to maintain international peace and security.
Sharif reiterated the need for all parties involved to remain calm and work towards de-escalation.
“We urge everyone to exercise restraint and work towards calming the situation. Stability and peace restoration are now urgent priorities,” he emphasized.
Pakistan Calls for Ceasefire, Accountability from Israel
In a clear statement, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s condemnation of Israel’s indiscriminate use of force in Gaza.
Pakistan has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian aid for Gaza’s residents, the return of displaced Palestinians, and accountability for Israel's actions.
Pakistan urged the UN Security Council to fulfill its responsibilities by urgently imposing a ceasefire and ending the violence.
Additionally, Pakistan emphasized the need for a just and permanent solution to the Palestinian issue, including the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital based on pre-June 1967 borders.
Concerns Rise Over ‘Pakistani Taliban’
Regarding relations with Afghanistan, governed by the Taliban since mid-2021, Sharif pointed to the “deep ties as two brotherly Muslim nations” that bind Pakistan and Afghanistan.
He emphasized the priority of Afghanistan’s regional security and sovereignty, expecting mutual respect from the interim Afghan government.
“We've consistently urged Afghanistan to prevent Afghan soil from being used for terrorist activities against Pakistan,” Sharif further explained.
“We’ve reached agreements bilaterally and trilaterally with China and collaborated multilaterally with the international community.”
“We're worried that terrorist groups, especially the Pakistani Taliban, operate freely in Afghanistan, posing a threat to Pakistan.”
“We'll keep striving for joint solutions in combating terrorism and ensuring no terrorist organization disrupts bilateral relations with Afghanistan,” affirmed Sharif.
Domestic Priorities: Law, Counterterrorism
Sharif hinted at his government’s four-month-old agenda, telling Asharq Al-Awsat that “our new government’s top priorities are maintaining law and order and eradicating the terrorism threat.”
He emphasized that the government will primarily focus on “creating a conducive environment for foreign investors through the Special Council for Investment Facilitation,” adding that the government, as a policy leader, plays a crucial role in facilitating entrepreneurs’ efforts to enhance ease of doing business.
“The government is also working on curbing inflation, alleviating poverty, and generating employment opportunities,” added Sharif.
“We will accelerate progress in agriculture, livestock, information technology, and small and medium-sized enterprises.”
“The government will reduce its expenditure and will not allow further squandering of the poor’s money,” he asserted.
“Under the agricultural strategy, direct subsidies will be provided to farmers in rural areas to ensure access to fertilizers,” revealed Sharif.

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Gulf

Saudi Arabia Welcomes Yemen Prisoner Exchange Agreement

Officials are seen at the announcement of the prisoner exchange in Muscat. (Saudi Ambassador to Yemen on X)
Officials are seen at the announcement of the prisoner exchange in Muscat. (Saudi Ambassador to Yemen on X)
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Saudi Arabia Welcomes Yemen Prisoner Exchange Agreement

Officials are seen at the announcement of the prisoner exchange in Muscat. (Saudi Ambassador to Yemen on X)
Officials are seen at the announcement of the prisoner exchange in Muscat. (Saudi Ambassador to Yemen on X)

Saudi Arabia welcomed on Tuesday the agreement signed in Muscat earlier to exchange prisoners and detainees in Yemen.

It deemed the development “an important humanitarian step that contributes to alleviating human suffering and boosting confidence-building opportunities.”

The Kingdom praised “the sincere efforts and generous initiatives exerted by Oman in hosting and sponsoring the talks, as well as its support for the negotiating efforts conducted from December 9 to 23.”

The Kingdom also hailed the efforts by the Office of the United Nations Special Envoy for Yemen, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and all parties who participated in the negotiations.

It reiterated its support for all efforts to achieve peace, security, and stability in a manner that fulfills the aspirations of the Yemeni people.

Yemen’s legitimate government and the Iran-backed Houthi militants reached an agreement to free 2,900 detainees held during the 11-year war.

Saudi Ambassador Mohamed Al-Haber said in a statement on X that the agreement was signed under the supervision of the Office of the UN Special Envoy for Yemen and the ICRC, “which will enable all detainees to return to their families.”

“I commend the efforts of the negotiation teams from both sides who succeeded in reaching an understanding and concluding this agreement, which addresses a humanitarian issue and strengthens efforts to bring calm and build confidence in Yemen,” he added.

The UN special envoy, Hans Grundberg, said the agreement was a “positive and meaningful step that will hopefully ease the suffering of detainees and their families across Yemen.”

“We are ready and determined to carry out the release, transfer and repatriation of detainees so that people separated from their families can be reunited in a safe and dignified manner,” said Christine Cipolla, the ICRC’s head of delegation in Yemen.

Gulf

Saudi-US Ties See Year of Stronger Political Interests, Defense Cooperation

The reception ceremony for Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the South Lawn of the White House, November 2025. (AFP)
The reception ceremony for Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the South Lawn of the White House, November 2025. (AFP)
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Saudi-US Ties See Year of Stronger Political Interests, Defense Cooperation

The reception ceremony for Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the South Lawn of the White House, November 2025. (AFP)
The reception ceremony for Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the South Lawn of the White House, November 2025. (AFP)

Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy in 2025 crystallized the Kingdom’s strategic priorities, reinforcing its standing as a trusted international mediator for major powers, its leadership in pressing for an end to the war in Gaza, and its firm rejection of displacement of the Palestinian people.

Riyadh doubled down on its advocacy of a two-state solution and the establishment of a Palestinian state, while stepping up support for Syria and working to strengthen collective regional security, including that of the Gulf Cooperation Council. At the same time, the Kingdom moved to deepen cooperation with the United States and other global powers.

Two Saudi-US summits stood out during the year, held during what were described as historic visits. The first came in May, when US President Donald Trump visited Saudi Arabia, followed by a November visit to the United States by Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Together, the two meetings highlighted Riyadh’s exceptional international standing in 2025.

During Trump’s visit to Riyadh, the US president praised the Crown Prince’s leadership, saying he best represented America’s strong allies. He said that a bright dawn awaited the Middle East, describing Saudi Arabia as the heart and center of the world, and stating that Riyadh was on track to become a global business hub.

During the Crown Prince’s visit to Washington, the two countries signed a broad package of agreements, including a Strategic Defense Agreement, the second such defense accord signed by Saudi Arabia in 2025.

The deals also encompassed a defense sales package, cooperation on civil nuclear energy, a strategic partnership on artificial intelligence, a framework for securing uranium and critical mineral supply chains, and measures to accelerate investments, among other initiatives.

Trump announced that Saudi Arabia would be designated a major non-NATO ally and praised Saudi negotiating skills, calling them “great negotiators.”

Backing Syria’s recovery

Although the war in Gaza continued to dominate global attention in 2025, sweeping changes in Syria prompted Saudi Arabia to play an active role in supporting the transition, with an eye toward the country’s recovery and international recognition of its new leadership.

After Saudi Arabia announced in late December last year that a Saudi delegation led by a Royal Court adviser had visited Damascus and met Ahmed al-Sharaa, then the leader of the new administration and now Syria’s interim president, Riyadh moved to intensify its support.

Saudi air and land bridges continued to deliver aid to the Syrian people, alongside humanitarian, medical and development projects set to expand by the end of the year to more than 103 projects, with a total cost nearing $100 million.

In addition to receiving Sharaa three times in 2025, Saudi Arabia pressed for the lifting of US sanctions on Syria at the direct request of Crown Prince Mohammed. Support also included settling Syria’s outstanding debts to the World Bank, estimated at around $15 million, and covering part of the salaries of Syrian government employees through a joint initiative with Qatar and the United Nations.

Saudi Arabia also continued to confront Israeli violations in the region, with senior officials repeatedly rejecting Israeli actions that went beyond the Gaza war to include violations of the sovereignty of several countries, including Syria, Qatar and Iran.

The Crown Prince reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s unlimited support for Qatar following an Israeli attack on a Hamas meeting there in September 2025.

Rejecting attempts to sideline the Palestinian cause

Riyadh moved to counter what it described as attempts to “liquidate the Palestinian cause”. A statement issued in February reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s unwavering position on the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Crown Prince Mohammed said the stance was “clear and explicit, leaving no room for interpretation,” stressing that Saudi Arabia would not establish relations with Israel without the creation of a Palestinian state and that the position was “firm and not subject to negotiation or bidding.”

The statement, issued about an hour after remarks by Trump during a White House press conference with the Israeli prime minister, was welcomed by the Palestinian Authority.

President Mahmoud Abbas praised what he called Saudi Arabia’s “sincere fraternal positions,” rejecting settlement expansion, annexation and displacement, and commended Riyadh’s continued humanitarian support for Gaza and its diplomatic efforts, including the establishment of a global alliance to mobilize recognition of the State of Palestine and the convening of an international peace conference in June.

Two-state solution

After two years in which Saudi Arabia brought together Arab and Islamic leaders over Gaza, a high-level international conference on the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian question and implementation of the two-state solution was held in September under Saudi and French leadership.

The meeting adopted the New York Declaration, which won broad backing in the UN General Assembly in what was described as a historic and decisive moment for peace, security and stability in the Middle East.

In comments to Asharq Al-Awsat, the Palestinian prime minister praised Saudi Arabia’s firm positions, saying they had helped mature international stances toward recognizing a Palestinian state and providing all possible support, noting that the two-state solution remained the foundation for peace and stability in the region.

Global influence and mediation

In February 2025, Diriyah hosted Saudi-sponsored talks between the United States and Russia aimed at improving relations. The US State Department described the summit as a significant step forward, while Kremlin diplomatic adviser Yuri Ushakov called it a success.

The following month, Jeddah hosted US-Ukrainian talks under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed, alongside US foreign and national security officials, as well as Ukraine’s defense minister and head of the president’s office.

Michael Mitchell, the US State Department’s regional spokesperson, told Asharq Al-Awsat that the world was closer than ever to a Russia-Ukraine ceasefire following the Saudi-hosted negotiations.

He expressed Washington’s appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s role in advancing diplomatic efforts and hosting key talks, reaffirming the US commitment to working with all parties to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine.

As part of its mediation role, Saudi efforts alongside other countries also helped contain tensions between Pakistan and India, which had seen the worst military escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors before a comprehensive and immediate ceasefire was announced in May.

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ahmad Farooq stated that Riyadh played a decisive role, engaging actively from the outset through high-level contacts and visits to both countries to facilitate de-escalation.

Defense partnerships

The Atlantic Council noted that the recent strengthening of US-Saudi defense cooperation reflected a pragmatic partnership based on shared interests rather than dependency, extending beyond arms sales to include intelligence sharing, tactical coordination to protect maritime routes, and joint efforts to build Saudi domestic defense capabilities.

Earlier, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a Strategic Joint Defense Agreement during the official visit of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to the Kingdom in September.

The agreement stipulates that an attack on either country would be considered an attack on both. The move drew widespread international media attention and praise from political and military circles, particularly given that the two countries do not share a direct border.

Saudi national security analyst Ahmed al-Quraishi told Asharq Al-Awsat that the agreement conveyed a significant message to multiple regional actors, while emphasizing that Saudi sources had made it clear that it was not directed at any specific country or development.

He described it as a mature strategic outlook, noting that Riyadh had emphasized there was no hostile intent behind the arrangement.

Pakistani journalist Abdul Rahman Hayat told Asharq Al-Awsat that the agreement represented the emergence of a new Islamic pole, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s regional and Islamic standing alongside Pakistan’s status as the world’s only Islamic nuclear power.

He said the deal would strengthen Islamic unity under Saudi leadership and help deter external violations.

Focus on Sudan and Yemen

In addition to its role within the international quartet on Sudan, Crown Prince Mohammed sought to persuade Trump of the need to halt the war, prompting greater US engagement in ceasefire efforts and the humanitarian crisis. He later received Sudan’s transitional sovereign council leader in Riyadh to bolster those efforts.

In December, following recent military moves by Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council in the eastern provinces of Hadramout and Mahra, a Saudi delegation led by Major General Mohammed al-Qahtani visited the areas for more than 10 days, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s efforts to resolve the crisis, end the conflict and restore stability.

Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Dr. Rashad al-Alimi praised Saudi Arabia’s role in easing tensions in eastern Yemen and urged political, tribal and social forces in the two provinces to unite behind state efforts.

Summing up the year, political analyst Ahmed Al-Ibrahim told Asharq Al-Awsat that Saudi Arabia has strengthened its defense capabilities and, through what he described as “measured diplomacy,” consolidated firm positions on issues such as Syria and the Gaza war.

He said the Kingdom had also established a new, credible international mediation platform that could be relied upon with confidence when needed.

Gulf

GCC Welcomes Prisoner Exchange Agreement in Yemen

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi.
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi.
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GCC Welcomes Prisoner Exchange Agreement in Yemen

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi.
Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi.

Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi welcomed on Tuesday the prisoner exchange agreement in Yemen that was reached in Muscat.

A GCC General Secretariat statement said, Albudaiwi commended the efforts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, the Office of the Special Envoy of the Secretary General of the United Nations to Yemen, and the International Committee of the Red Cross in reaching Tuesday’s agreement.

He hoped the deal will help in strengthening the path to peace and stability in Yemen, alleviating the humanitarian suffering of the people, building trust between parties, and ultimately leading to a comprehensive and sustainable political solution that guarantees Yemen's security, stability, and unity, and serves the aspirations of its people for peace and development.