Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have stressed the need for talks between Islamabad and New Delhi to resolve their "ongoing issues," particularly regarding Kashmir. This joint statement came after Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met on April 7 at Al-Safa Palace in Mecca.
During their meeting, the leaders discussed strengthening the friendly relations between their countries and exploring opportunities for increased cooperation across various sectors. They also addressed the Kashmir issue.
According to the statement, both sides emphasized the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve their outstanding issues, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, to ensure peace and stability in the region.
India's stance has consistently been that Kashmir is a bilateral matter between India and Pakistan, with no room for mediation or intervention by third parties. India has reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and desires normal relations with Pakistan without terrorism, hostility, or violence.
The joint statement also highlighted Saudi Arabia's supportive role in Pakistan's economy and the mutual desire to enhance trade and investment ties. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to expediting the previously discussed $5 billion investment package.
Furthermore, the leaders discussed regional and global developments of mutual interest, including the situation in Gaza. They called for international efforts to stop Israeli military actions in Gaza and mitigate the humanitarian impact. Additionally, they emphasized the need to advance the peace process based on relevant UN resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative, aiming for a just and comprehensive solution, including the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Prime Minister Sharif invited Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to visit Pakistan officially, which was accepted. Sharif, accompanied by a high-level delegation, visited the Kingdom on his first foreign trip to perform Umrah and meet with Saudi leadership.
Separately, Radio Pakistan reported that Prime Minister Sharif and the Saudi Crown Prince reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. They both praised the positive trajectory of the longstanding fraternal relations between their countries.
