Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia on October 29-30 to participate in the 8th Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, according to a statement from Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This prominent platform brings together global leaders, investors, and innovators to explore opportunities for sustainable growth and economic collaboration.
This year’s FII, themed “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow,” will focus on key topics including artificial intelligence, robotics, energy, space exploration, finance, healthcare, and sustainability. It aims to drive strategic investments that tackle some of today’s most pressing global challenges.
Accompanied by senior cabinet members, PM Shehbaz is expected to hold significant bilateral discussions with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, as well as other high-ranking Saudi officials. These discussions are likely to cover economic and strategic cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, specifically in economic, energy, and defense sectors, underscoring the depth of their bilateral relationship.
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During the FII, PM Shehbaz will also engage with international business leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, opening doors for potential foreign investments that align with Pakistan’s economic priorities. The visit builds upon a series of recent interactions between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the countries’ enduring partnership. Earlier in October, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed 27 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) valued at $2.2 billion across various sectors, further strengthening their economic ties.
PM Shehbaz’s trip follows his official visit to Saudi Arabia in April, where both leaders agreed to fast-track a $5 billion Saudi investment initiative for Pakistan. In addition, Saudi Arabia extended a crucial $2 billion deposit to Pakistan’s State Bank last year, facilitating the approval of a $3 billion IMF bailout package that supported Pakistan’s economy amid financial pressures.
Saudi Arabia’s steady economic support, along with its deep-rooted cultural and strategic ties with Pakistan, underscores the importance of this upcoming FII meeting for both nations as they work toward sustainable development and economic resilience.
