ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Thursday morning left for a two-day private visit to Saudi Arabia, the Foreign Office said in a statement.
During his visit, the prime minister will inquire after the health of Saudi Arabian King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz and convey good wishes and prayers of the people and the government of Pakistan for his early recuperation, good health and long life.
The prime minister would also meet Crown Prince Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud and Deputy Crown Prince Muqrin bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud.
They will exchange views for further enhancing brotherly relations between the two countries in all areas of mutual interest including economic relations, defence and security cooperation, export of manpower from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia and regional and international issues.
“This will be third high-level contact between the two countries in less than a year that reflects the depth of fraternity and excellent cooperation existing between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia,” the Foreign Office said.
Sharif would also perform Umrah and pay his respects at Roza-e-Rasool (SAW) in Madina.
In his pre-departure statement, Nawaz Sharif said that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are tied in close bonds of shared faith and values. He said that being the custodians of two holy mosques, the Saudi leadership has a special place in the heart of every Pakistani.
Nawaz Sharif also expressed concern over the health of the ailing King and prayed for his early recovery.
