PM Shehbaz to Lead High-Level Delegation to Riyadh for Investment Talks at FII9
Overview of the Visit
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will travel to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from October 27 to 29. He will attend the Ninth Future Investment Initiative (FII9) to boost Pakistan–Saudi economic and investment cooperation. The visit aims to attract new partnerships in trade, energy, and technology.
The Foreign Office (FO) confirmed that the Prime Minister will lead a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar and senior cabinet members.
Focus of the FII9 Summit
The FII9 conference carries the theme “The Key to Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers of Growth.” It brings together world leaders, investors, and innovators to discuss global growth challenges and opportunities.
Sessions will explore topics like innovation, sustainability, economic inclusion, and changing geopolitics. These discussions are designed to find practical solutions that promote shared prosperity.
Bilateral Meetings and Cooperation
During his visit, PM Shehbaz Sharif will meet the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. Talks will focus on trade, investment, energy collaboration, and human resource development.
He will also hold side meetings with leaders from other participating countries and heads of international organizations. These exchanges will help promote Pakistan’s investment potential and its plans for sustainable growth.
Strengthening Pakistan–Saudi Relations
The visit highlights Pakistan’s commitment to economic diplomacy and to strengthening its ties with Saudi Arabia. The two countries share a deep and historic relationship, built on mutual trust, shared faith, and strong economic links.
Riyadh has long supported Islamabad through financial assistance and energy cooperation. Recently, the two nations signed a defence agreement, agreeing that any attack on either country would be treated as an attack on both.
In 2024, they signed 34 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) worth $2.8 billion, following an earlier deal of 27 MoUs valued at $2.2 billion. These agreements reflect their shared focus on economic progress and regional stability.
A Step Toward Economic Growth
According to the Foreign Office, the visit will help expand investment-driven partnerships. It also reaffirms Pakistan’s role as a reliable partner for sustainable development under the “Think, Exchange, and Act” approach.
With this visit, Pakistan hopes to attract new investors, enhance trade flows, and strengthen regional cooperation in energy and innovation.
