In Islamabad, sources familiar with the matter have indicated that the eagerly awaited visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman is likely to occur during the initial week of October.
Pakistan has been actively pursuing this visit for some time, and while there were earlier reports of a brief stopover in Islamabad, it was later decided that a separate state visit would be more suitable. Both parties are currently in discussions to confirm the specific dates for the visit, with expectations pointing towards the first week of October.
This visit holds significant economic prospects for Pakistan, as it is anticipated to pave the way for much-needed investments, especially from Saudi Arabia. Initiatives like the Special Investment Facilitation Council have been established to attract Gulf country investments, with major projects, including an oil refinery in Gwadar, likely to be announced during the visit.
This visit will mark the first time the Saudi crown prince has been to Pakistan since his last visit in February 2019, with previous plans canceled due to changes in Pakistan's military leadership.