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PM to embark on official visit to Saudi Arabia from June 5-6
Listen to article Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to undertake an official two-day visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Thursday to express gratitude to the Saudi leadership for its constructive role in de-escalating the recent conflict between Pakistan and India. The PM's visit coincides with Eidul Azha and will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, underscoring the significance of the trip. Read More: Pakistan, Turkiye and Azerbaijan reaffirm unity at trilateral summit According to the statement issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, during visit, Premier Sharif will hold talks with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Key areas of discussion will include enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, advancing the welfare of the Muslim Ummah, and addressing regional peace and security concerns. The PM is also expected to express gratitude to the Saudi leadership for its constructive role in de-escalating the recent conflict between Pakistan and India, highlighting the importance of Saudi Arabia's support in fostering peace in the region. 🔊PR NO.1️⃣6️⃣2️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣5️⃣ Curtain Raiser: Visit of Prime Minister of Pakistan to Saudi Arabia. 🔗⬇️ — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) June 4, 2025 "This visit underscores the deep-rooted, time-tested ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, anchored in shared faith, mutual respect, and strategic partnership. It reaffirms the leadership's commitment to deepening economic and diplomatic engagement, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and Pakistan's development priorities," read the statement. Last week, Premier Sharif concluded a diplomatic tour, visiting four countries to strengthen regional partnerships in the wake of heightened tensions with India. The tour served as an important opportunity for Pakistan to personally express its gratitude to these nations for their support during the recent escalation. The trip focused on reinforcing bilateral ties and promoting peace, with the PM thanking key allies for their role in de-escalating the situation with India.
Express Tribune
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
PM, President mark nuclear anniversary with pledges of resilience and reform
Listen to article Pakistan comemorated on Wednesday the 27th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer, the day it became a nuclear power, with top leaders paying tribute to the architects of the nuclear programme and calling for national unity and economic strength amid regional tensions. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a message to the nation, congratulated the public and described the day as a symbol of Pakistan's resolve to protect its sovereignty and independence. He said it should now also serve as a renewed commitment to economic transformation. 'Today, on Youm-e-Takbeer, I thank Allah Almighty and congratulate from the core of my heart the entire nation and all patriotic Pakistanis,' Sharif said. As the nation celebrates Youm-e-Takbeer, we thank Allah Almighty for His countless blessings and for granting us yet another glorious victory in the face of recent Indian aggression. Twenty-seven years ago, on this historic day, PM Mian Nawaz Sharif made Pakistan's defence… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 28, 2025 The anniversary marks the nuclear tests carried out on May 28 1998 in the Chaghi hills of Balochistan, which made Pakistan the seventh nuclear-armed state in the world and the first in the Muslim world. The decision came in response to five nuclear tests conducted by India earlier that month. Before these tests, then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had faced immense external pressure and offers to abandon the program. Today, on Youm-e-Takbeer, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to stand united in safeguarding Pakistan's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence against any threat or act of aggression. We remain resolute in our dedication to promoting peace and stability—both in… — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 28, 2025 Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, said the move demonstrated 'iron resolve' in the face of heavy international pressure and economic sanctions. 'Mr Nawaz Sharif represented the aspirations and national interests of the entire nation… and made our geographical borders impregnable forever,' he said. The prime minister also linked this year's commemorations to what he called Pakistan's success in a recent military standoff with India, describing the period of May 6 to 10 as an 'unjustified war imposed by India'. He claimed Pakistan's armed forces and the public had shown 'unbreakable unity' and resolve during the confrontation. 'This year, the joys of Youm-e-Takbeer have further increased for a nation filled with victory,' he stated. Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the scientific and political leadership behind the nuclear programme. He singled out Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who initiated the programme in the 1970s, and Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, widely regarded as the father of Pakistan's nuclear capability. He also praised the contributions of scientists, engineers, the armed forces and the people. پاکستان کو ایٹمی طاقت بنے 27 سال مکمل آج پاکستان بھرمیں ''یوم تکبیر'' قومی جذبے سے منایا جا رہا ہے 28مئی1998کو پاکستان نے بھارت کے5 ایٹمی دھماکوں کے جواب میں 6 ایٹمی دھماکے کرکے ملک کے دفاع کو ناقابلِ تسخیر بنا دیا آج پوری قوم کا سر فخر سے بُلند ہے اور پہلی اسلامی ایٹمی طاقت… — PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) May 28, 2025 'I salute the nation, which made immense sacrifices for the completion of the nuclear programme and wrote a proud story of its determination and faith,' he said. He called Youm-e-Takbeer not just a celebration of the past, but a call to build a stronger, self-reliant future. 'Today we pledge to make Pakistan an economic power and achieve its true place in the world. Insha Allah. Long live Pakistan.' In a separate message, President Asif Ali Zardari described Pakistan's nuclear capability as a 'calculated decision' to ensure peace and maintain strategic balance in South Asia. 'Becoming a nuclear power was not merely a demonstration of technological advancement,' Zardari said. 'It was to protect the nation from external aggression and safeguard peace through strength.' Zardari said the country's nuclear programme continues to serve as a 'credible minimum deterrent' amid a changing regional security environment, ensuring that no one can undermine Pakistan's sovereignty. He praised the civil and military leadership, scientists and engineers for their efforts, and acknowledged the foundational role of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He also credited former prime minister Benazir Bhutto for further advancing the programme during her tenure. 'We also pay tribute to Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who laid the foundation of Pakistan's nuclear programme,' he said. 'And we acknowledge the role of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, whose stewardship further advanced and strengthened it.' Touching on recent tensions with India, Zardari highlighted what he called Pakistan's 'calibrated response' under Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos—a military action that, he said, was effective in forcing the enemy to cease hostilities. He said Pakistan remains committed to peaceful coexistence and international law, but warned that the country will never compromise on its sovereignty. 'As we commemorate this important day, let us renew our pledge to uphold and safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our beloved country.' The day was marked with official ceremonies, national broadcasts, and messages of remembrance, unity and resilience. Public institutions, military establishments and civil organisations also honoured the scientific and strategic achievement that placed Pakistan on the global nuclear map.
Express Tribune
23-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
FM Ishaq Dar, Saudi counterpart discuss regional tensions, pledge stronger ties
Listen to article Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, held talks with Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in Islamabad, reaffirming the longstanding relationship between the two countries. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, with both leaders also exchanging views on current regional developments. Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50, spoke with the Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan @FaisalbinFarhan. The two leaders reviewed entire gamut of deep-rooted and fraternal ties between the two… — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 23, 2025 Earlier on Thursday, Dar had announced that Pakistan would upgrade its relations with the Afghan Taliban government, following extensive consultations with all relevant stakeholders. 'We will do due diligence and discuss all pros and cons,' Dar told reporters, regarding the potential diplomatic shift. The announcement comes after China brokered a trilateral meeting in Beijing, which involved Dar, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The meeting led to an agreement between Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan to cooperate in the fight against terrorism, including addressing groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). Read more: Ties upgrade with Kabul after due diligence: Dar In the trilateral talks, the three nations agreed to eliminate terrorism from their territories, with Dar emphasising that Pakistan would not accept the use of Afghan soil for attacks against its security. Dar added that while terrorist groups might operate without the Afghan government's knowledge, any government-sanctioned attacks would be unacceptable. Dar also addressed the issue of Afghan refugees, stating that a new policy would allow Afghan refugees to enter Pakistan with a one-year multiple-entry visa for $100. He underscored the importance of the Afghan government ensuring its soil is not used for terrorist activities against Pakistan. In his successful visit to China, Dar discussed a variety of issues, including regional developments, trade, and Afghan refugees. He also confirmed that China and Pakistan had agreed to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan. The proposed projects include a new highway linking Peshawar to Kabul and a trans-Afghan railway to connect Central and South Asia. A month ago, a high-level Saudi delegation, led by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, arrived in Pakistan to explore investment opportunities. The delegation, which included key Saudi officials, aims to strengthen bilateral economic relations between Riyadh and Islamabad. Read more: High-level Saudi delegation arrives for investment talks This visit follows a recent meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. During their visit, the Saudi delegation is expected to engage with Pakistan's senior leadership, including the president, prime minister, foreign minister, and military officials, to discuss potential investments. Pakistan is keen to attract significant Saudi investment, particularly in the Reko Diq mining project and the agricultural sector, as part of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) initiative.
Express Tribune
21-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Pakistan, China agree to extend CPEC into Afghanistan
Listen to article Pakistan, China and Afghanistan have agreed to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghan territory, marking a significant step in trilateral cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative. The agreement came during an informal trilateral meeting held in Beijing on Wednesday between Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Officials described the talks as constructive, with discussions focused on deepening diplomatic engagement, enhancing regional connectivity, and promoting trade, infrastructure and development. The three sides termed their cooperation vital for regional stability and agreed that economic integration was key to shared progress. They also stressed the importance of combating terrorism and working collectively toward peace and sustainable development. During his bilateral meeting with Wang Yi, the Deputy Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan's unwavering support for China's core interests and thanked Beijing for its consistent support for Pakistan's sovereignty and security. Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50, concluded a successful three day visit to China from 19–21 May 2025. Together, the two sides reaffirmed their iron-clad friendship and advanced their shared vision for international and regional… — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 21, 2025 Wang Yi described Pakistan as China's 'iron brother' and reaffirmed his country's commitment to Pakistan's development and regional stability. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the ongoing progress of CPEC and welcomed third-party participation in its second phase. The ministers also discussed enhancing cooperation in agriculture, ICT, industry, and investment. They pledged to maintain coordination on regional and global forums and reiterated their commitment to multilateralism. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar called for a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions, describing it as essential for long-term peace in South Asia.
Express Tribune
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Pakistan rubbishes Indian claim of attack on Golden Temple
Listen to article Pakistan has rejected as "baseless" claims by a senior Indian Army officer that Islamabad had attempted to target the Golden Temple, with drones and missiles in Amritsar city of India's Punjab state, earlier this month. A spokesperson for Pakistan's Foreign Office, responding to remarks made by a senior Indian Army officer, said on Tuesday, 'We categorically reject the allegations that Pakistan attempted to target the Golden Temple, the most revered place in the Sikh faith.' Statement by the Spokesperson in Response to Media Queries Regarding the Remarks Made by a Senior Indian Army Officer. — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 20, 2025 'We hold all places of worship in the highest esteem and cannot think of targeting a holy site like the Golden Temple,' the spokesperson added. The spokesperson further said India had attacked multiple religious sites in Pakistan on the night of May 6 and 7. Pakistan also highlighted its role in facilitating Sikh religious pilgrimage, pointing to its visa-free access initiative for international pilgrims visiting the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur. 'Pakistan is the proud custodian of many holy sites of the Sikh faith,' the statement read. 'Every year, it welcomes thousands of Sikh pilgrims from across the world. Pakistan also provides visa-free access to the Gurdwara Sahib Kartarpur through the Kartarpur Corridor.' 'In that backdrop, any claim concerning Pakistan's attempt to target the Golden Temple is absolutely baseless and incorrect,' the spokesperson reiterated. India-Pakistan standoff The latest escalation between Pakistan and India began on April 22, when an attack in the IIOJK resort town of Pahalgam killed 26 people. India immediately blamed Pakistan for the incident, despite providing no public evidence. In response, India undertook a series of hostile actions the next day on April 23, including suspending the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), cancelling visas for Pakistani citizens, closing the Wagah-Attari border crossing, ordering the shutdown of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, and reducing diplomatic staff at each other's embassies. Pakistan strongly rejected the accusation, calling it unsubstantiated, but took reciprocal measures through its National Security Committee (NSC). These included halting trade with India, closing Pakistani airspace to Indian aircraft, and other countersteps. Tensions further escalated in the early hours of May 7, when missile strikes hit six cities in Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), destroying a mosque and killing dozens of civilians, including women, children, and the elderly. In a swift military response, Pakistan's armed forces shot down Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets, widely regarded as a key asset of the Indian Air Force. Over the following two days, India launched waves of Israeli-made drones, which were also neutralised by Pakistan's military. The confrontation intensified again in the early hours of May 10, when India targeted several Pakistani airbases with missile strikes. In retaliation, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, damaging Indian military installations, including missile storage sites, airbases, and other strategic targets. By Saturday evening, US President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire had been reached following intense diplomatic efforts overnight. Minutes later, the agreement was confirmed separately by Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and the Indian foreign secretary. But despite the military ceasefire the war of narratives has waged on. While Pakistan publicly credited US President Donald Trump — along with China and Gulf states — for playing a vital role in defusing tensions, India downplayed foreign involvement. Indian officials have insisted the truce was the result of direct bilateral talks. Trump, has however, reiterated his stance twice following the initial announcement.
