LAHORE, September 13: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif told Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Sunday that Pakistan would continue efforts to defuse regional tensions and support peace following recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia’s civilian and economic infrastructure.
During a telephone conversation, the prime minister strongly condemned the attacks and expressed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Saudi leadership and people, according to a statement issued by the Press Information Department.
Shehbaz Sharif said the latest Houthi actions posed risks to regional peace and security and could also disrupt the global economy and energy supplies.
He said he, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar would continue diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and promoting stability in the region.
The prime minister also praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership during the crisis and conveyed his regards to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
According to the official statement, the Saudi crown prince thanked Pakistan for what he described as its steadfast support for the Kingdom and acknowledged Islamabad’s efforts for regional peace and stability.
The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact and expressed a desire to meet again at an early date.
The conversation comes amid renewed concern over attacks on Saudi civilian and economic infrastructure and their possible wider impact on regional security and international energy markets.