Web Desk: Pakistan’s prime minister met Saudi Arabia’s de facto ruler in Jeddah on Wednesday, while a separate high-level delegation traveled to Tehran in a parallel diplomatic push aimed at easing regional tensions and reviving stalled US–Iran talks.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman after arriving in Jeddah with a senior delegation, according to an official statement. The meeting, which included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and reviewing regional developments.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, led a separate delegation to Tehran, where officials are working to facilitate a new round of negotiations between Iran and the United States. The visit comes days before a fragile ceasefire linked to the ongoing conflict is set to expire.
During the Jeddah meeting, Pakistani officials underscored longstanding ties with Saudi Arabia, describing the relationship as rooted in shared values and mutual trust. Dar said discussions centered on expanding collaboration across multiple sectors and reaffirming a commitment to deepening the partnership.
He added that Saudi Arabia holds enduring importance for Pakistan, signaling Islamabad’s intent to maintain close engagement with the kingdom’s leadership.
Upon arrival, Sharif was received by senior Saudi officials, including Prince Saud bin Mushaal bin Abdulaziz, along with Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki and Pakistan’s envoy to the kingdom Ahmad Farooq.
In addition to Dar, the delegation includes Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and senior adviser Tariq Fatemi, among other officials.
At the same time, Field Marshal Asim Munir in Tehran is attempting to revive dialogue between Washington and Tehran after an earlier round of talks ended without agreement. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is also participating in the mediation effort.
The initiative follows heightened tensions marked by competing maritime measures and a conflict that has spread across the Middle East, with significant casualties reported in Iran.
The urgency stems from an approaching April 22 deadline tied to the ceasefire. Pakistani diplomats are working to secure an extension while encouraging both sides to return to negotiations.
Islamabad is leveraging its ties across the Gulf to build support for renewed diplomacy. Sharif’s visit to Saudi Arabia is seen as part of a broader effort to rally regional partners to encourage Washington’s participation in future talks.
With time running short before the truce deadline, Pakistan’s dual-track engagement in Riyadh and Tehran highlights its attempt to position itself as a mediator in a volatile regional landscape.
Read more: Field Marshal Asim Munir lands in Tehran on key visit: ISPR
