NEW YORK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic relations with Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, highlighting the importance of robust bilateral partnerships in trade and investment.
In a televised message marking Saudi Arabia’s National Day, the prime minister expressed gratitude and extended warm greetings to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and the Saudi people.
Sharif recalled the significant support extended by Saudi Arabia during the 2025 tensions with India, particularly the solidarity and economic assistance that helped stabilize Pakistan’s economy. He emphasized that Pakistan’s relationship with Saudi Arabia is deeply rooted in shared values of Islam, history, and trust, and that these ties will continue to grow.
“The economic support provided by Saudi Arabia has been crucial, and it is something that will always be remembered by the Pakistani nation,” said Sharif, also noting the Kingdom’s ongoing role in supporting Pakistan’s economic stability. He further praised the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation during their recent visit to Riyadh, calling it a source of immense pride for him.
Sharif took the opportunity to commend Saudi Arabia’s progress under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He expressed pride in the Kingdom’s remarkable developmental journey, citing it as a model of success and vision on the global stage. The prime minister also highlighted the significant contributions made by Pakistan’s expatriate community in Saudi Arabia, many of whom consider the Kingdom their second home and actively contribute to its growth and prosperity.
Separately, Prime Minister Sharif met with Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah during his visit to New York for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. During their cordial meeting, the two leaders discussed the longstanding historical ties between Pakistan and Kuwait and explored opportunities to expand cooperation in key sectors such as trade, investment, agriculture, livestock, manpower export, and healthcare.
Sharif expressed Pakistan’s eagerness to further deepen its bilateral ties with Kuwait, emphasizing the potential for collaboration in areas that would benefit both countries economically. He also thanked Kuwait for its support during the recent floods in Pakistan, appreciating the solidarity shown by the Kuwaiti leadership and people during the crisis.
The prime minister also mentioned that Pakistan was looking forward to hosting the Kuwaiti Crown Prince for an official visit later this year. Dates for the visit are being finalized through diplomatic channels. Both leaders also discussed regional and international issues, including the situation in the Middle East, and affirmed their shared commitment to working closely on multilateral platforms to address global challenges.
“The services of the Pakistani community in Kuwait remain a key pillar of our strong relations,” Sharif said, highlighting the valuable contributions made by Pakistan’s diaspora in Kuwait to both nations’ development.
In response, the Kuwaiti Crown Prince appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, particularly in raising awareness about the plight of the Palestinian people. He also praised Pakistan’s significant role in promoting peace and stability in the region, underscoring Kuwait’s continued support for Pakistan’s efforts on the international stage.
The leaders affirmed their resolve to strengthen their collaboration in key areas, with an eye on increasing economic exchanges and further deepening their diplomatic ties.
