RIYADH: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with World Economic Forum President Borga Brende on the sidelines of the Future Investment Initiative, where both leaders agreed to strengthen partnership between Pakistan and the global economic body.
During the meeting held at the WEF leadership’s request, PM Sharif highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms, including digital transformation that has “significantly reduced corruption,” financial discipline measures, and investment promotion policies.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Pakistan’s priorities include economic stability, youth empowerment, digital advancement, and export growth. He positioned Pakistan as a “natural bridge” connecting South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, stressing that regional peace is essential for prosperity.
Borga Brende formally invited PM Sharif to attend the prestigious Davos meeting in 2026, which the Prime Minister gladly accepted. The WEF President appreciated Pakistan’s active role in promoting regional economic cooperation and sustainable development.
Both leaders discussed global economic challenges, sustainable development goals, and investment opportunities, reaffirming their commitment to enhanced collaboration between Pakistan and the World Economic Forum.
On his three day visit, PM Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, during the Ninth Edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII9) in Riyadh.
The delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and the Prime Minister’s aides Tariq Fatemi and Bilal Bin Saqib.
Furthermore, a statement released by state broadcaster PTV News said the meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman took place in a “cordial atmosphere.”
“Matters of mutual interest were discussed in the meeting. The joint statement of the meeting regarding discussions on promoting trade, investment, and cooperation in various sectors between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will be issued shortly,” the statement added.
In addition, this meeting was also attended by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, and senior cabinet members from both sides, underlining the importance of the dialogue in shaping future economic and strategic collaboration between Islamabad and Riyadh.
