Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan has reiterated its “unwavering” support for Saudi Arabia amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received the Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, on Sunday.
The meeting took place against the backdrop of a widening conflict triggered by the United States-Israeli war on Iran, and as foreign ministers of Egypt, Turkiye, and Saudi Arabia gathered in Islamabad for a consultative meeting.
According to an official statement, PM Sharif praised Saudi Arabia’s “remarkable restraint” during the crisis and emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to stand “shoulder to shoulder” with the Kingdom.
He also highlighted Riyadh’s leadership role in the Muslim world and called for greater unity among Islamic countries during what he described as a critical period.
It was a pleasure to receive His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan this evening.
I conveyed my respectful regards to His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and warm greetings to my brother His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince.
I reaffirmed Pakistan’s…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) March 29, 2026
The meeting was part of a broader diplomatic effort, as Islamabad hosted foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt to discuss pathways toward de-escalation.
The talks focused on reducing military tensions and creating conditions for negotiations between Iran and its adversaries, with Pakistan positioning itself as a mediator in the conflict.
Sharif’s office noted that Pakistan has undertaken extensive diplomatic outreach, including efforts to bring both the United States and Iran to the negotiating table.
The Saudi foreign minister shared Riyadh’s perspective on the evolving situation, and both sides agreed to maintain close coordination to promote regional peace and stability.
Read More: Pakistan, Saudi FMs Stress ‘Collective Efforts’ for Stability in the Gulf and Mideast
The crisis has already begun to disrupt global energy supplies and trade routes, raising concerns about broader economic fallout. Analysts warn that prolonged instability could significantly impact oil markets and shipping lanes, particularly in the Gulf region.
Pakistan’s support for Saudi Arabia is rooted in longstanding strategic and military ties, further strengthened by a mutual defense agreement signed last year.
Officials have reiterated that Islamabad would assist Riyadh if needed, underscoring the depth of the bilateral relationship.
Earlier this month, Sharif also met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Kingdom, where both leaders agreed to work closely for regional peace amid rising volatility.
