Saudi Arabia, home to over 2.7 million Pakistani expatriates and a pivotal source of remittances for Pakistan, has consistently maintained robust trade, defense, and fraternal relations with the South Asian nation.

Earlier, felicitations were extended from China, Turkey, and Iran to Sharif upon his election as prime minister on Sunday.

Sharif, who previously assumed the role of prime minister following Khan's removal from office in April 2022, faces numerous challenges ahead. Among his primary tasks is maintaining relations with the military, which has wielded significant influence in Pakistan since its inception.

He assumes office amidst pressing economic issues, including the necessity to negotiate a new bailout agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as the current program concludes this month.

Managing relationships with key allies such as the US and China, alongside addressing strained ties with neighboring countries like India, Iran, and Afghanistan, will also be paramount. Additionally, Sharif's government must confront the escalating militancy plaguing Pakistan.