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PM Shehbaz receives Saudi Crown Prince's invitation for Riyadh FII Forum

PM Shehbaz receives Saudi Crown Prince's invitation for Riyadh FII Forum

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chairs a review meeting on Hajj arrangements for the upcoming year in Islamabad on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Photo courtesy: Radio Pakistan
Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Said Ahmed Al-Malki called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister's House on Saturday and presented him with an invitation from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to attend the 9th Future Investment Initiative (FII) Forum in Riyadh from October 27, 2025, to October 30.
The Prime Minister accepted the invitation and expressed gratitude to the Crown Prince, extending good wishes to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and the Crown Prince.
The meeting also covered recent regional developments. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, along with advisers Tariq Fatemi and Dr Tauqir Shah, attended the meeting.
Read: PM praises Saudi hospitality, extends Eid greetings to Crown Prince MBS
Earlier, PM Shehbaz met Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz in Makkah during a two-day official visit.
The meeting saw a constructive exchange of views on strengthening bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and security domains.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif {@CMShehbaz} attended a luncheon hosted in his honour by Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, in Makkah.#PMShehbazInKSA pic.twitter.com/kocs4pUQGn — Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) June 6, 2025
According to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office, the meeting reaffirmed strategic and fraternal ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, with both leaders highlighting the importance of continuing their strong partnership.
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