A day after Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a memorandum foran economic corridor between India and the Middle East, Pakistan’s foreignminister confirmed that the prince’s visit to the country has not beenconfirmed yet. However, caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilanimentioned in an interview with Shaukat Piracha that the visit would involvethe signing of multiple MOUs, but a specific date has not been set.
Jilani emphasized the close and multi-dimensional relationship betweenSaudi Arabia and Pakistan, including political and economic aspects. Heexpressed the unparalleled affection the people of Pakistan have for SaudiArabia and their eagerness to welcome a high-level visit from Saudi Arabia.
While the visit’s formal confirmation was still pending, Jilani expressedhope that it would take place as it was Prince Salman’s wish. He referredto the prince’s previous statement where he referred to himself asPakistan’s ambassador in Saudi Arabia and mentioned that the visit’sdetails would be decided diplomatically at the prince’s convenience.
Jilani underscored the significance of the visit, highlighting agreementsand investment opportunities between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan under theSpecial Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in areas like agriculture,IT, mining, and energy. He also noted the increased Saudi involvement inPakistan since the establishment of SIFC.
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Despite earlier rumors, the visit by MBS has not materialized. Jilani alsomentioned Saudi Arabia’s history of supporting Pakistan during conflictsand emphasized Saudi Arabia’s role as a trustworthy partner in Pakistan’srelations with India, ensuring Pakistan’s interests are considered.
