Pakistani PM Shehbaz in Saudi, army chief in Iran for diplomacy push
Pakistan intensifies regional engagement with Saudi, Qatar and Türkiye visits while military delegation advances US-Iran mediation efforts
Islamabad (MNTV) — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Jeddah on Wednesday, while Asim Munir led a high-level delegation to Tehran, as Pakistan stepped up diplomatic efforts across the region.
Sharif, accompanied by senior ministers and officials, was received by Saudi authorities upon arrival as part of a five-day official visit that also includes stops in Qatar and Türkiye. The visit comes amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing efforts to stabilise the Middle East following the US-Israeli war on Iran.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the premier’s meetings in Saudi Arabia and Qatar will focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation as well as discussing regional peace and security. The visit follows Riyadh’s financial support to Islamabad, including extended deposits and economic assistance.
During his trip, Sharif is also scheduled to attend the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he is expected to engage with global leaders and present Pakistan’s position on key international issues. He is also likely to hold talks with Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and other senior officials.
Parallel to the prime minister’s engagements, Army Chief Munir arrived in Tehran along with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and other officials, as part of Islamabad’s expanding mediation role between the United States and Iran.
Pakistan’s military said the delegation aims to facilitate dialogue and convey key diplomatic messages amid renewed efforts to organize another round of negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The team includes representatives from foreign affairs, security institutions, and technical experts, reflecting the complexity of the mediation process.
The twin visits highlight Pakistan’s increasing diplomatic involvement at a critical moment, as ceasefire efforts remain fragile and global powers continue to push for renewed negotiations between the United States and Iran.