Saudi Prince Salman, Nawaz Sharif discuss ways to enhance ties

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who is on a private visit to Saudi Arabia, called on Crown Prince Salman Bin Abdul Aziz, deputy premier and minister of defense, here on Monday evening.

Sohail Ali Khan, press consular at the Pakistan consulate here, told Saudi Gazette that Prime Minister Sharif was accompanied by his son, Hussain Nawaz, and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar.

He said Prince Muqrin Bin Abdulaziz, deputy crown prince, second deputy premier, advisor and special envoy of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, was also present.

During the meeting, Crown Prince Salman and the visiting leader expressed satisfaction at the status of bilateral relations and discussed various issues of mutual interest, Khan said. The two leaders also discussed ways to further enhance relations between the two countries.

He said the crown prince conveyed his greetings to Sharif on performance of Umrah.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed his gratitude to the crown prince for his sentiments and thanked him for the hospitality extended to him during his visit.

Crown Prince Salman hoped that relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will strengthen further. ??Prime Minister Sharif said Saudi Arabia is playing a unique and irreplaceable role in the Muslim World.

The two leaders also agreed that high level exchanges between the two countries were essential for further deepening of bilateral relations.

Prince Muqrin, according to the press consular, said relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are excellent at all levels and the bond of brotherhood has transcended the vicissitude of time.
Sharif said relations were not based on political expediency; they are etched deep in the heart of every Pakistani and Saudi national.