Makkah defence agreement sends message of unity and peace: PM
The prime minister made the remarks during a meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engineer Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadley. The meeting focused on agriculture, water management, food security, technology and the export of Pakistani agricultural products to Saudi Arabia.
Makkah defence agreement sends message of unity
PM Shehbaz welcomed the Saudi minister and reaffirmed the close and longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
He also conveyed his warm regards to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
The prime minister said the recently signed Makkah Joint Defence Agreement had brought Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye closer together.
He described the agreement as a message of unity and peace for the wider region. The remarks highlight the broader strategic relationship among the three countries beyond defence cooperation.
Focus shifts towards trade and investment
Shehbaz said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia now need to give greater attention to economic cooperation. He stressed the importance of turning the strong relationship between the two countries into a mutually beneficial trade and investment partnership.
The two sides discussed ways to increase agricultural exports from Pakistan to the Kingdom. Pakistan is seeking greater access to the Saudi market for its agricultural products as part of efforts to expand bilateral trade.
Agriculture and technology were discussed
The meeting also covered ways to improve agricultural productivity in Pakistan.
Both sides discussed the use of modern technology, research and development, and better water management. Efficient use of water resources was highlighted as an important area for cooperation.
The discussions are aimed at improving agricultural output while making better use of available resources. Technology and research could also help Pakistan improve farming methods and strengthen the quality and quantity of agricultural products available for export.
Pakistani experts to visit Riyadh
PM Shehbaz announced that a delegation of Pakistani agricultural experts would soon visit Riyadh.
Also Read: Holiday announced for Baba Bulleh Shah Urs
The delegation will continue discussions with Saudi officials and experts on possible areas of cooperation. The visit is expected to help both sides explore practical ways to expand agricultural collaboration.
It could also provide an opportunity to identify projects involving technology, research, water management and agricultural exports. The prime minister said the discussions were intended to realise the full potential of the partnership.
Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment
Saudi Minister Abdulrahman Al-Fadley thanked the prime minister for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation.
He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Pakistan. The areas highlighted by the Saudi minister included agriculture, water and food security.
The commitment could provide a wider framework for future cooperation between the two countries. It also comes as both sides look to expand their relationship beyond traditional areas of bilateral engagement.
Water and food security gain importance
Water management and food security are becoming increasingly important areas of cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Pakistan has a large agricultural sector, while Saudi Arabia continues to focus on securing reliable food supplies.
Greater cooperation could benefit both countries through technology sharing, agricultural expertise, and improved supply chains. Better water management could also support Pakistan’s efforts to improve agricultural productivity.
Government ministers attend meeting
Several federal ministers and senior government officials attended the meeting between PM Shehbaz and the Saudi minister. Those present included Rana Tanveer Hussain, Mohammad Aurangzeb, Atta Tarar, Jam Kamal Khan and Dr Musadik Malik.
Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, Dr Syed Tauqir Shah, Bilal Azhar Kiyani and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi also attended. The participation of several senior officials reflected the importance attached to the discussions.
