The Pakistani capital is preparing to welcome MBS for an official visit next November, following the signing of a joint defense agreement between Riyadh and Islamabad. This visit is considered a significant milestone in the relationship between the two countries, carrying broad strategic and economic dimensions.
Defense agreement strengthens cooperation
The past period witnessed the signing of a joint defense agreement between the Crown Prince and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif , described as a major milestone in military cooperation in recent decades. The agreement solidified the partnership in areas such as training, technology transfer, joint military production, and intelligence cooperation, with expectations that it will expand to include additional fields such as the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
Regional repercussions
The upcoming visit of MBS will translate this agreement into concrete steps through the announcement of major investment projects, including infrastructure, energy, and defense. According to Pakistani officials, the Saudi Prime Minister will be accompanied by a delegation of business leaders to discuss new opportunities with their counterparts in Islamabad.
International interest
The defense agreement signed in the presence of the Crown Prince has not only impacted Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, but has also attracted the attention of other capitals, including India and the United States. In an article published by the Atlantic Council , Italian researcher Eleonora Ardemani argued that the agreement reflects the evolution of Gulf security thinking, particularly in light of Riyadh's policy of diversifying its defense partnerships.
Historical roots
The Kingdom and Pakistan have enjoyed close relations since the signing of the Treaty of Friendship in 1951. Since then, defense and economic cooperation has continued. The new agreement signed by MBS strengthens these ties and gives them a more institutional dimension in light of current regional changes.
Economic dimensions
According to statements from the Pakistani Prime Minister's Coordinator, the Crown Prince will witness the launch of major investment projects in renewable energy, infrastructure, and joint ventures. These projects align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and simultaneously support economic reforms in Pakistan.
The importance of the visit to Riyadh
MBS 's visit reflects the Kingdom's keenness to strengthen its presence in South Asia, in addition to its role in shaping regional and international balances. It also underscores Saudi Arabia's ability to build a balanced network of alliances that enhance security and stability and serve its strategic interests.
conclusion
The Crown Prince's visit to Pakistan this November is expected to have an impact that extends beyond bilateral relations. It sends a clear message that the Kingdom is committed to building multifaceted partnerships based on development and shared security. While this visit will provide a significant boost to the Pakistani economy, it also elevates Saudi Arabia's standing in the regional arena, reflecting its growing influence under MBS's .
