ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a formal telephone conversation with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, early this morning. During the exchange, which officials described as highly cordial, the Prime Minister conveyed Pakistan’s unequivocal condemnation of the recent attacks conducted by the Houthi militia against Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea.

Condemnation of Regional Instability

Prime Minister Sharif characterized these aggressive actions as entirely unacceptable, emphasizing that they constitute a direct violation of international law. He noted that such hostile maneuvers threaten the freedom of navigation and global commercial shipping, ultimately undermining regional peace and stability. The discussion reflected broader efforts to maintain economic stability similar to recent dialogues held by the Finance Minister Aurangzeb during high-level economic talks in Washington D.C. as part of regional security and growth mandates.

Solidarity and Strategic Partnership

The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s complete solidarity with the brotherly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He articulated that he, along with Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the entire Pakistani nation, stands firmly with the Saudi leadership during this critical period. This pledge of support reinforces the historical ties between the two nations, mirroring the spirit of cooperation seen in other sectors, such as Pakistan and Iran’s efforts to strengthen strategic railway ties and regional connectivity.

Commitment to Maritime Security

Looking ahead, Prime Minister Sharif assured Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Pakistan will continue to collaborate closely with the Kingdom and the international community to safeguard peace and security. He underscored the necessity of ensuring the uninterrupted flow of lawful maritime commerce in the Red Sea, the Strait of Hormuz, and the wider region. In response, His Royal Highness expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s steadfast support and the enduring fraternal relations shared between the two states. The conversation concluded with Prime Minister Sharif conveying his warm regards and best wishes to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.