Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif departed for London on Thursday after concluding a significant state visit to Saudi Arabia, during which Pakistan and the Kingdom signed a landmark Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement.

Farewell in Riyadh

The prime minister was seen off at Riyadh Airport by Deputy Governor Prince Muhammad bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz.

Shehbaz Sharif’s visit took place at the invitation of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, who accorded him a grand reception upon his arrival in Riyadh.

Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement

During the high-level meetings, Shehbaz Sharif and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement, formalizing a new chapter in bilateral defense cooperation.

Also Read: Pakistan, KSA sign historic strategic mutual defence deal

The pact emphasizes that any aggression against either country will be considered an aggression against both, thereby strengthening joint deterrence and collective security. It reflects the shared commitment of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to safeguard peace and stability in the region and beyond.

PM's reflections

In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Sharif expressed deep gratitude for the warm welcome.

“From the unprecedented escort provided to my aircraft by the Royal Saudi airforce jets to the smartly turned out guard of the Saudi Armed Forces, this welcome reception speaks volumes about the abiding love and mutual respect between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia,” he wrote.

Deeply touched by the heart warming welcome, accorded to me by my dear brother HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, on my official visit to Riyadh.

From the unprecedented escort provided to my aircraft by the Royal Saudi airforce jets… pic.twitter.com/RZvkOSQbF1
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) September 18, 2025

The premier described his discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as “most cordial,” covering regional challenges and ways to boost bilateral cooperation.

Also Read: India reacts to Saudi-Pakistan mutual defence agreement

He also lauded the crown prince’s vision and leadership, pledging continued support to further strengthen Pakistan-Saudi relations.

“I greatly value [the Saudi Crown Prince’s] consistent support & his keen interest in expanding Saudi investments, trade and business ties. It is my fervent prayer that Pakistan - Saudi Arabia’s friendship continues to flourish and attain new heights of glory,” Shehbaz posted.

Saudi leadership’s messages

Saudi Arabia’s Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman also shared a message in Urdu on X, underscoring the spirit of the newly signed defense agreement.

سعودیہ اور پاکستان۔۔
جارح کے مقابل ایک ہی صف میں۔۔
ہمیشہ اور ابد تک۔🇵🇰🇸🇦 https://t.co/3oBMFEU1G5
— Khalid bin Salman خالد بن سلمان (@kbsalsaud) September 17, 2025

“KSA and Pakistan. One front against any aggressor. Always and forever,” he wrote.