Jeddah: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent the current regional tensions from escalating into a wider conflict among Muslim countries, according to a report by The News citing sources familiar with high-level discussions held in Jeddah.
The understanding emerged during a brief but significant visit by Pakistan’s Prime Minister to Saudi Arabia amid growing instability in the Middle East.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was accompanied by Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, as well as Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar.
The delegation held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss the rapidly evolving security situation in the region and explore ways to reduce tensions through diplomacy.
According to sources, both sides agreed that the situation requires urgent diplomatic engagement to prevent escalation and ensure that disputes are addressed through dialogue rather than confrontation.
The leaders reiterated their longstanding position that conflicts within the Muslim world must be avoided and that every possible effort should be made to stop the crisis from turning into a broader confrontation among Muslim states.
During the meeting, the Pakistani delegation expressed strong solidarity with Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed that Pakistan has consistently supported the Kingdom’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.
Officials also highlighted the special importance of Saudi Arabia as the custodian of Islam’s holiest sites, describing their protection as a matter of honour and responsibility for Pakistan and its armed forces.
Sources further noted the symbolic significance of Field Marshal Munir attending the meeting in combat uniform, which was interpreted as a signal that Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership stand united in their commitment to Saudi Arabia’s security.
The Saudi Crown Prince also hosted an exclusive dinner for the Pakistani delegation, attended only by Prime Minister Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Dar and General Munir — a gesture widely seen as reflecting the close strategic partnership between the two countries.
Officials said both sides agreed that at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, it is essential to reduce hostilities, prevent further escalation and promote unity and stability across the Muslim world.