Pak-Saudi Talks Include Mention of Kashmir During Shehbaz Sharif’s Umrah Trip

Shehbaz Sharif, the Pakistan Prime Minister, and Saudi de-facto ruler Prince Mohammed bin Salman had an official meeting at Al-Safa Palace in Mecca. According to a joint statement issued a day after the meeting, the discussions between the two leaders primarily focused on strengthening the fraternal relations between the two nations and exploring avenues for enhanced collaboration across various sectors. Additionally, they addressed the Kashmir issue, emphasizing the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve the outstanding issues, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute to ensure peace and stability in the region. A significant aspect of the discussion was India’s long-held position that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan, with no scope for mediation or intervention by any third party.

India has consistently reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and expressed its desire for normal neighborly relations with Pakistan in an environment free of terror, hostility, and violence. The joint statement also highlighted the Gulf Kingdom’s supportive role in Pakistan’s economy and the mutual commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties. Specifically, both parties affirmed their dedication to expediting the first wave of an investment package worth $5 billion, which had been previously discussed. Furthermore, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest, including the worrying situation in Gaza, and urged international efforts to halt Israeli military operations in Gaza and mitigate humanitarian impact.

They also discussed the need for advancing the peace process in accordance with relevant resolutions of the Security Council and the General Assembly, as well as the Arab Peace Initiative aimed at finding a just and comprehensive solution for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif extended an official visit invitation to Bin Salman, which was accepted by the Crown Prince. Additionally, Radio Pakistan reported that both leaders reaffirmed their determination to further strengthen bilateral ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, expressing appreciation for the upward trajectory of their longstanding fraternal relations.