In a recent meeting with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underlined the need to resolve “heightened friction” between Pakistan and India, especially the Kashmir issue.
According to Reuters, both the leaders held an official meeting at Al-Safa Palace in Mecca on April 7. This was Sharif’s first overseas trip after assuming office. Their discussions centred on fortifying the fraternal relations between the two nations and exploring avenues for enhanced collaboration across various sectors, according to reports. Also, both sides reportedly raised the Kashmir issue.
“The two sides stressed the importance of dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve the outstanding issues between the two countries, especially the Jammu and Kashmir dispute to ensure peace and stability in the region,” a joint statement released by Pakistan’s foreign office and the Saudi government, accessed by Reuters, said.
New Delhi has always maintained that Kashmir is a bilateral matter solely between India and Pakistan and there is no question of any mediation or intervention by any third party. According to reports, India has said it desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan in an environment free of terror, hostility, and violence.
Earlier India had criticised Islamabad’s objection to removal of Article 370 which granted special status to erstwhile states of Jammu and Kashmir. India had also accused Pakistan of backing and protecting terror groups who have threatened India’s security.
On Pakistan economy
The joint statement added that emphasis was placed on Saudi Arabia's supportive role in Pakistan's economy and the mutual desire to strengthen trade and investment ties.
“Both parties affirmed their commitment to expediting the first wave of investment package worth $5 billion which was discussed previously,” the statement said.
Pakistan, which is cash-strapped, desperately needs to shore up its current account deficit. It needs to convey to the International Monetary Fund that it can continue to meet requirements for foreign financing.
Prime Minister Sharif invited Bin Salman to undertake an official visit to Pakistan, which was accepted by the Crown Prince.
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