Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed a commitment to advancing Pakistan-Saudi joint business ventures, promoting trade and commerce, and enhancing cooperation in research and development. This announcement was made during a banquet held in honor of a high-level Saudi business delegation led by Prince Mansour bin Mohammad Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi-Pakistan Joint Business Council.

The Prime Minister urged both nations’ business communities to capitalize on opportunities for joint ventures. He highlighted the significance of the recent Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing that it formalizes longstanding informal arrangements. Sharif noted Pakistan’s pride in safeguarding Makkah and Madinah alongside Saudi partners, reflecting the deep-rooted ties between the two countries.

Prince Mansour bin Mohammad Al Saud acknowledged Pakistan’s business-friendly environment, noting the potential for bilateral cooperation in various sectors. He emphasized agriculture, breeding dairies and meat processing, food security, pharmaceuticals, and construction as key areas for collaboration.

The discussions underscore the shared commitment of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to deepen economic and strategic ties, with a focus on mutual growth and development.