ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has concluded his official visit to Saudi Arabia and departed for Doha, the capital of Qatar, according to a statement issued by the Prime Ministerâs Office (PMO) on Thursday.
The PMO said the prime minister is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting in Doha with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to discuss matters of mutual interest.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also confirmed that the premier and his delegation departed from Madina for Doha to participate in the high-level meeting.
During his visit to Saudi Arabia, PM Shehbaz arrived in Madina, where he was received by Governor Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The prime minister visited Masjid-e-Nabawi, offered prayers for Pakistanâs progress and global peace, and paid respects at the Prophetâs (PBUH) Chamber.
Earlier, in Jeddah, the prime minister held a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The discussion focused on strengthening bilateral ties, with Ishaq Dar describing the engagement as marked by âwarmth, brotherhood, and a shared visionâ for enhanced cooperation between the two countries.
According to the Foreign Office, the prime ministerâs ongoing three-nation tour from April 15 to 18 includes visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey. The visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar are aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation and discussing regional peace and security. In Turkey, PM Shehbaz will participate in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he is expected to present Pakistanâs stance at the Leadersâ Panel alongside other global leaders.
The regional tour comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, where Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, have faced attacks by Iran targeting US and Israeli-linked sites. Pakistan has been actively pursuing diplomatic efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran, contributing to a fragile ceasefire and initial rounds of dialogue.
Last month, PM Shehbaz praised Saudi Arabiaâs restraint during the crisis and emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation and lasting peace in the region.
