ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said the recently signed Makkah Joint Defence Agreement has brought Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye closer and sent a message of unity and peace across the region.

The prime minister made the remarks on Friday during a meeting with Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Engineer Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadley.

Shehbaz welcomed the Saudi minister and reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding ties with Saudi Arabia. He also conveyed his regards to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Focus shifts to economic cooperation

Shehbaz said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia should now focus on expanding economic and agricultural cooperation.

He described the two countries as strategic partners and called for stronger trade and investment links.

The prime minister also welcomed progress in agricultural trade between the two countries, particularly Pakistan’s exports of agricultural products to Saudi Arabia.

He said both sides should explore new opportunities to increase trade and create a stronger economic partnership.

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Pakistan plans agricultural experts’ visit

The two sides discussed ways to improve agricultural productivity in Pakistan.

Their discussions covered technology, research and development and more efficient use of water resources.

Shehbaz said a delegation of Pakistani agricultural experts would soon travel to Riyadh.

The delegation will continue discussions with Saudi officials and explore ways to unlock the full potential of cooperation between the two countries.

Al-Fadley thanked the prime minister for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Pakistan in agriculture, water management and food security.

Saudi minister meets Field Marshal Asim Munir

Al-Fadley also met Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi on Friday.

The meeting covered matters of mutual interest, according to a statement from Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Asim Munir highlighted the close and longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

The Saudi minister praised Pakistan’s role in supporting regional peace and stability.

He also expressed interest in expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in agriculture and environmental sustainability.

Broader partnership gains momentum

The meetings reflect a wider effort by Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to expand their relationship beyond traditional strategic cooperation.

Agriculture, water management and food security have emerged as important areas for future collaboration.

Pakistan also sees greater agricultural exports and investment as key opportunities for strengthening economic ties with the Kingdom.

The latest discussions come as Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye seek closer coordination under the new Makkah agreement while continuing efforts to promote stability and economic cooperation across the region.