Pakistan PM meets Saudi Crown Prince to discuss regional security

Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Friday to discuss regional security issues, as Pakistan continues to navigate tensions with neighboring India while seeking economic support from Gulf allies.

The meeting in Islam's holiest city included Pakistan's army chief and senior cabinet ministers.

Sharif thanked Saudi Arabia for its involvement in recent Pakistan-India tensions, according to a Pakistani government statement, suggesting Saudi Arabia played a role in diplomatic efforts between the nuclear-armed neighbors, though details of any mediation were not disclosed.

The leaders discussed the Gaza conflict, with both countries reaffirming support for a Palestinian resolution based on Arab Peace Initiative proposals and U.N. Security Council resolutions.

Sharif also praised Saudi Arabia's management of the Hajj pilgrimage and extended Eid greetings to the Saudi leadership. The visit coincides with the annual pilgrimage season, when hundreds of thousands of Pakistani Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia.

Allies agree to 'expand cooperation'

The Pakistani delegation included Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and two cabinet ministers.

Both leaders agreed to deepen cooperation across political, economic and security domains. Sharif invited Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit Pakistan, which the Saudi leader accepted, though no timeline was announced.

The meeting reinforces Pakistan's efforts to strengthen ties with Gulf nations as it seeks economic support and regional backing amid domestic challenges and strained relations with India.