RIYADH: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday on a two-day visit to strengthen bilateral ties and participate in the Future Investment Initiative summit.
Riyadh Deputy Governor Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz and Pakistan’s ambassador to the kingdom Ahmed Farooq received him at the airport.
The delegation includes key cabinet members such as the finance minister, defence minister, privatisation minister, information minister, petroleum minister, and commerce minister.
“The FII serves as an important platform for countries to showcase their economic strength, draw foreign investments, and engage in dialogue to shape a sustainable future,” according to the Foreign Office.
This year’s FII is themed ‘Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow’ and will focus on global investments aimed at addressing major issues such as artificial intelligence, robotics, education, energy, space, finance, healthcare, and sustainability.
PM Shehbaz is expected to hold bilateral talks with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and other senior Saudi officials.
“The two sides will discuss the economic and strategic partnership between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and explore bilateral cooperation in the economic, energy, and defence domains.”
The prime minister is also expected to engage with participating leaders and entrepreneurs at the conference.
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The prime minister is expected to meet with leaders and businesspeople attending the FII.
Following his KSA visit, PM Shehbaz will travel to Qatar on Thursday to participate in COP29 and further strengthen Pak-Qatar relations.
At the invitation of Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, he would inaugurate an exhibition showcasing Pakistani exports, arts, and culture in Doha. Meetings with the emir and other leaders to discuss investment opportunities in Pakistan are also scheduled.
