Pakistan, KSA vow vigilance against attempts to derail talks

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Friday underscored the need for vigilance against any attempt to derail the ongoing negotiation process following the historic signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The understanding was reached during a high-level telephone conversation between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in which both leaders stressed the need for strict adherence to diplomacy as tensions continue to simmer across the Middle East. A statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office said the two leaders agreed that it was essential for the next phase of negotiations between Iran and the US to proceed smoothly, with outstanding issues resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. In a notably high-stakes exchange, Prime Minister Sharif congratulated the Saudi Crown Prince on the signing of the Islamabad MoU, describing it as a landmark framework aimed at de-escalating a prolonged and devastating regional conflict. Sharif lauded Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s “steadfast and consistent” support for Pakistan’s peace diplomacy, crediting his leadership during what he termed a volatile and rapidly evolving regional situation. He also highlighted the role of coordinated Gulf support in advancing the agreement, saying such backing had helped accelerate progress towards the deal within a matter of months, reflecting unusually swift diplomatic momentum. In response, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulated Prime Minister Sharif and praised Pakistan’s leadership, including Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, for their contributions towards finalising the agreement. Expressing satisfaction over the strong state of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the prime minister said both sides were prepared to finalise and sign a comprehensive economic package under the patronage of the Crown Prince. He also reiterated his invitation to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to undertake an official visit to Pakistan at his earliest convenience. The prime minister also conveyed his regards to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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