Pakistan, Saudi Arabia reaffirm economic partnership, pledge to expand trade and investment

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia reaffirmed their longstanding strategic and economic partnership during a high-level meeting in Islamabad on Friday, with both sides pledging to expand trade, investment and financial cooperation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan, who was on a one-day official visit. The meeting at the Prime Minister’s House was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, underscoring the importance Islamabad places on ties with Riyadh.

Welcoming the Saudi minister, Sharif conveyed his regards to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reaffirming Pakistan’s respect for the Kingdom’s leadership, the PM's Office said in a statement.

The prime minister recalled his recent phone call with the crown prince, describing it as cordial and constructive. He appreciated Saudi Arabia’s continued economic and financial support, saying it had played a key role in stabilizing Pakistan’s economy during difficult periods.

Sharif highlighted the enduring nature of bilateral ties, saying Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had always stood by each other in times of need. He described the relationship as a “deep-rooted fraternal bond” that has grown stronger under the Saudi leadership.

He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in trade, investment and broader economic development, adding that deeper collaboration would unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity in both countries.

Al-Jadaan thanked the prime minister for the warm welcome and reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Pakistan. He said Saudi Arabia aimed to expand economic engagement and further strengthen historic ties in line with the vision of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share decades-old strategic, religious and economic relations. The Kingdom has been a key financial partner for Pakistan, providing oil facilities, deposits to support foreign exchange reserves, and investment commitments.

In recent years, both countries have sought to shift their relationship from traditional financial support to long-term economic collaboration, particularly in energy, infrastructure, mining and technology.

The latest engagement comes as Pakistan steps up efforts to attract foreign investment and strengthen its economy, while Saudi Arabia expands its global economic footprint under its Vision 2030 reforms.