Saudi parliamentary delegation arrives in Pakistan

A high-level Saudi parliamentary delegation arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday, marking a deepening of ties between the two long-time allies amid ongoing regional diplomacy over Gaza and recent defense cooperation.

The delegation, led by Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council, was invited by Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.

Saudi Ambassador Nawaf Saeed Al-Maliki and Sadiq received the delegation upon arrival in Islamabad.

During the visit, the delegation is expected to meet President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and army chief Field Marshal Gen. Asim Munir to discuss parliamentary cooperation, defense collaboration, and regional stability, according to officials.

The visit follows the signing of a new defense deal between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia last month.

It also comes as both countries play active roles in diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza, with Saudi officials recently meeting U.S. President Donald Trump to push for broader regional de-escalation.

Officials said talks in Islamabad will focus on strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing parliamentary exchanges between Pakistan’s National Assembly and the Saudi Shura Council, and exploring joint initiatives for economic development and security cooperation.

As a gesture of goodwill, Pakistan’s Parliament House in Islamabad was illuminated in green lights to mark the delegation’s arrival — symbolizing what officials described as the “deep-rooted friendship, fraternity, and solidarity” between the two nations.