Web Desk

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan&rsquo;s Hajj operation for this year is gathering pace, with more than 35,000 pilgrims already in Saudi Arabia under the government scheme, an official said on Tuesday. According to the Coordinator of Facilitation and Coordination, Nasir Aziz Khan, a total of 35,135 pilgrims have reached the kingdom so far via 137 flights, reported APP. Of these, 21,063 are currently in Makkah, while 14,072 are in Medina, according to the report.&nbsp;Authorities have deployed 948 welfare staff and Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj across key locations to assist pilgrims from arrival at airports to their accommodation, part of efforts to streamline logistics for one of the world&rsquo;s largest annual religious gatherings.&nbsp;The deployment of welfare staff is being finalized to further facilitate pilgrims, the report said. The staff includes 598 Moavineen (helpers), 184 medical personnel and 158 Khuddam, all operating in shifts around the clock, Khan said, adding that teams were on &ldquo;high alert 24/7&rdquo; to support pilgrims. According to the Consolidated Daily Situation Report, medical assistance has been provided to 6,613 outpatients at hospitals and dispensaries in Makkah and Medina. It added that in Makkah, guidance services helped 6,525 pilgrims reach their destinations, while in Madinah, 15,462 pilgrims have completed their visit to Riaz-ul-Jannah.&nbsp;&ldquo;The mission successfully resolved 2,815 out of 2,832 requests regarding lost luggage in Medina, ensuring the belongings were returned to the pilgrims,&rdquo; as per the report.&nbsp;Khan reaffirmed the mission&rsquo;s commitment to utilizing all available resources to provide the &ldquo;best travel and residential facilities.&rdquo; He said the primary goal is to ensure pilgrims can focus entirely on performing their Hajj rituals with peace of mind.

Culture

Economy

According to the Coordinator of Facilitation and Coordination, Nasir Aziz Khan, over 35,000 pilgrims have reached the kingdom.

Pakistan Hajj operation accelerates as thousands of pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia has expressed concern over rising military tensions in the region, calling for de-escalation, restraint, and support for Pakistan&rsquo;s diplomatic efforts to achieve a political solution.&nbsp;In an official statement, the Kingdom warned that continued escalation could push the region toward further instability, stressing that such a scenario would not serve the interests of regional or global peace. It underscored the importance of dialogue and supported Pakistan&rsquo;s mediation role in defusing tensions.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia also highlighted the need to restore normal maritime activity in the Strait of Hormuz, urging the international community to ensure safe and unrestricted passage of vessels to safeguard global trade routes. <div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 873px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2051590497739665606&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=2d04233a2166bf1bd07dbae69b0b0ad230b8a510&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px">&nbsp;</iframe></div></div>The development comes as Pakistan&rsquo;s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned recent missile and drone attacks targeting civilian infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;In a statement, Sharif expressed full solidarity with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Emirati people, reaffirming Pakistan&rsquo;s support during what he described as a difficult time.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 345px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-1&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2051560804416360773&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=2d04233a2166bf1bd07dbae69b0b0ad230b8a510&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px">&nbsp;</iframe></div></div>&ldquo;It is absolutely essential that the ceasefire be maintained to create diplomatic space for dialogue,&rdquo; the prime minister said, emphasizing that peaceful engagement remains key to achieving lasting regional stability.&nbsp;In a statement, Pakistan&rsquo;s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar condemned the missile and drone attacks carried out against the UAE.&nbsp;He further added that Pakistan stands with the people of UAE and express full solidarity with the UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and UAE foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.&nbsp;<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2051718385432764744&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=1d9cce6f127584c2d18b071423411fc9278ec03c&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 369px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" data-tweet-id="2051718385432764744">&nbsp;</iframe></div></div>FM Dar reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s commitment to continue efforts for lasting peace and stability in the region and beyond. The coordinated calls from Riyadh and Islamabad reflect growing international concern over escalating tensions, with both sides urging restraint and renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further deterioration.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar receives Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on April 06, 2026. (File photo: MOFA) 

Middle East

The statement comes as Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned recent missile and drone attacks targeting civilian infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates.

Saudi Arabia backs Pakistan mediation, calls for restraint

ISLAMABAD: The Taliban have called on Afghan refugees currently stranded abroad to return home, asserting that the country is safe and that citizens face no security threat under their rule. In a statement issued on Saturday, the foreign ministry of &nbsp;the interim Afghan government said it had received reports that Afghan nationals in Qatar, many of whom are awaiting US visas, are being asked to choose between returning to Afghanistan or relocating to a third country.&nbsp; Among the countries reportedly under consideration is the Democratic Republic of Congo. Describing Afghanistan as &ldquo;the shared home of all Afghans,&rdquo; the ministry encouraged refugees to come back, assuring them they could do so without fear. It also stated that those wishing to migrate elsewhere could pursue opportunities later through &ldquo;legal and dignified&rdquo; channels. The statement emphasized the Taliban&rsquo;s willingness to cooperate with other governments through consular agreements to safeguard Afghan citizens&rsquo; rights.&nbsp; It further insisted that &ldquo;no one currently faces security threats in Afghanistan,&rdquo; dismissing concerns about instability or persecution. Uncertain futureThe appeal comes as uncertainty grows for roughly 1,100 Afghan refugees housed at As Sayliyah camp in Qatar. The group includes interpreters, former special forces personnel, and family members of individuals who worked with US forces.&nbsp; According to media reports, the US administration has halted resettlement programs for Afghan refugees, leaving many unable to travel to the United States.&nbsp; Officials have also indicated plans to shut down the camp, prompting discussions about relocating refugees to third countries. A senior US official said Washington is in talks with multiple nations regarding possible resettlement options, noting that keeping refugees indefinitely in Qatar is &ldquo;not a viable solution.&rdquo;&nbsp;However, the US has not formally confirmed any agreement to transfer refugees to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Meanwhile, Reuters reported that some Afghan refugees in Qatar have been offered financial incentives to return to Afghanistan, raising further concerns among aid groups. Concerns over safety persistDespite Taliban assurances, international organizations remain deeply skeptical.&nbsp; The United Nations and other human rights groups have repeatedly warned that Afghanistan remains unsafe for many returnees, particularly women, journalists, human rights defenders, and former government or military personnel. Human rights advocates argue that the Taliban&rsquo;s claims of nationwide security do not reflect the realities faced by vulnerable groups, many of whom fear persecution if forced to return.

The Taliban government said on Saturday that Afghans who fled to Qatar, fearing reprisals over their collaboration with US forces, may return home “with full confidence.” (AFP/File)

Afghanistan

The Taliban have urged Afghan refugees in Qatar to return home amid uncertainty over US resettlement and possible relocation to the Democratic Republic of Congo, despite ongoing international safety concerns.

Taliban ask Afghan refugees in Qatar to return home

ISLAMABAD: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) announced on Tuesday that it had received $1 billion from Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Ministry of Finance, marking the second tranche of a recently agreed $3 billion financial support package.&nbsp;In a statement, the central bank said the first tranche of $2 billion had been received on April 15, 2026, while the latest inflow completes the full amount committed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 345px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2046443757072228585&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=b909f9899687ff4a9f9bd982c027710a9f4a2b49&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px"></iframe></div></div>Last week, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said Saudi Arabia had&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pakistantv.com/article/saudi-arabia-commits-3b-in-additional-deposits-for-pakistan" target="_blank" style="color:#0073e6;" rel="noopener noreferrer">pledged an additional $3 billion in deposits</a>&nbsp;to help strengthen Pakistan&rsquo;s external account position, with disbursement expected shortly.&nbsp;He also noted that the existing $5 billion Saudi deposit, which had previously been renewed annually, would now be extended for three years instead of following the earlier rollover arrangement.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters in Washington, Aurangzeb had said the new funding follows Riyadh&rsquo;s decision to prolong the rollover of the existing $5 billion deposit.&nbsp;A spokesperson for Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s Ministry of Finance also confirmed to Reuters that the kingdom had agreed to provide the $3 billion deposit to support Pakistan&rsquo;s balance of payments.&nbsp;Pakistan is currently facing pressure on its foreign exchange reserves due to a $3.5 billion repayment due to the United Arab Emirates this month, an amount equivalent to nearly 18% of its reserves.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia has frequently provided financial assistance to Pakistan during times of economic difficulty. In 2018, Riyadh announced a $6 billion support package that included a $3 billion deposit with Pakistan&rsquo;s central bank and $3 billion worth of oil supplies on deferred payment terms.

Headquarters of the State Bank of Pakistan in Karachi. (File photo: Radio Pakistan)

The payment comes as the second tranche of the $3 billion deposits recently agreed by Saudi Arabia.

Pakistan receives $1B from Saudi Arabia

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan&rsquo;s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his official visit to Saudi Arabia, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office (PMO) said in a press release. <div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 694px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-1&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2044514583872749882&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=4ef725290cec625d11ab9f6161e0727108fdf9d6&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div> In a post on his X account, the premier said he had the pleasure and honor of meeting the crown prince, during which he conveyed &quot;Pakistan&rsquo;s unwavering solidarity with the Kingdom,&quot; expressing deep appreciation for Saudi Arabia&#39;s patience and restraint during these challenging times. &quot;I also shared recent developments related to Pakistan&rsquo;s peace efforts, which helped facilitate the US&ndash;Iran ceasefire and historic peace talks in Islamabad,&quot; PM Sharif said, reiterating firm commitment to advance efforts to &quot;encourage both the US and Iran towards an agreement aimed at lasting peace and stability in the region.&quot; <div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-4" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 672px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-4&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2044547495334683049&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=4ef725290cec625d11ab9f6161e0727108fdf9d6&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px">&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div> &quot;I also expressed sincere appreciation for the Kingdom&rsquo;s consistent support for Pakistan&rsquo;s economic stability, while highlighting the unique defence and security relationship between our two countries. We reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthening our enduring partnership,&quot; he added. Separately, in a post on X, FM Dar said that meeting with the crown prince was &quot;marked by warmth, brotherhood, and a shared vision for a stronger Pakistan&ndash;Saudi Arabia partnership.&quot;&nbsp; &quot;The Prime Minister reaffirmed our deep-rooted ties, built on faith, trust, and mutual respect, and explored avenues to further enhance cooperation across all sectors,&quot; he said, adding that Saudi Arabia was a &quot;special place for Pakistanis, and we remain committed to strengthening this historic and fraternal relationship for generations to come.&quot; <div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-3" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 744px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-3&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2044516185262493975&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=4ef725290cec625d11ab9f6161e0727108fdf9d6&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div> Prime Minister Sharif arrived in Jeddah on Wednesday for an official visit to Saudi Arabia, accompanied by a high-level delegation, the PMO said in a press release earlier. PM Sharif was received at the airport by Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Makkah region, along with Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s ambassador to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, and Pakistan&rsquo;s envoy to Riyadh, Ahmed Farooq, said the statement. The talks between the crown prince and the prime minister are expected to focus on strengthening cooperation between the two countries and exchanging views on the evolving regional situation, the statement said. Foreign Minister Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, and foreign media coordinator Musharraf Zaidi are part of the visiting delegation. Earlier, the announcement of the PM leaving for Jeddah came shortly after Finance Minister Aurangzeb said that Saudi Arabia has committed an additional $3 billion in deposits to Pakistan, with disbursement expected within a week, providing timely support for the country&rsquo;s external financing needs.&nbsp;Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the <a href="https://www.pakistantv.com/article/pakistan-finance-minister-outlines-macroeconomic-outlook-reform-progress-at-uspakistan-business-council-luncheon" target="_blank" style="font-size: 18px; color: rgb(0, 115, 230);" rel="noopener noreferrer">World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings 2026</a>, the finance minister said the Kingdom has also agreed to extend its existing $5 billion deposit for a longer period, moving away from the earlier annual rollover arrangement. During his visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, the prime minister is expected to hold high-level meetings with the leadership of both countries to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional peace and security.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-2" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 720px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-2&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2044421268162703720&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=4ef725290cec625d11ab9f6161e0727108fdf9d6&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div>In T&uuml;rkiye, the prime minister will participate in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he will join a panel of leaders to present Pakistan&rsquo;s perspective on key global issues. On the sidelines of the forum, Sharif is also expected to meet Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and other world leaders. Pakistan&rsquo;s participation in the forum reflects its commitment to constructive diplomacy, multilateral cooperation and engagement on global challenges.

Foreign Affairs

Conveys unwavering solidarity with the Kingdom, expresses deep appreciation for Saudi Arabia's patience and restraint during these challenging times; FM Dar says that meeting with the crown prince was "marked by warmth, brotherhood, and a shared vision for a stronger Pakistan–Saudi Arabia partnership." 

PM Sharif shares efforts behind US-Iran ceasefire with Saudi crown prince

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan&#39;s Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb said that Saudi Arabia has committed an additional $3 billion in deposits to Pakistan, with disbursement expected within a week, providing timely support for the country&rsquo;s external financing needs. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pakistantv.com/article/pakistan-finance-minister-outlines-macroeconomic-outlook-reform-progress-at-uspakistan-business-council-luncheon" target="_blank" style="color:#0073e6;" rel="noopener noreferrer">World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings 2026</a>, the finance minister said the Kingdom has also agreed to extend its existing $5 billion deposit for a longer period, moving away from the earlier annual rollover arrangement. <div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; line-height: 2;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 672px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2044247340308148616&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Fdashboard%2F&sessionId=6cce7b9fd498f49855a1f8e1b89c9a140954b443&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div>Aurangzeb said the fresh inflows would help strengthen Pakistan&rsquo;s foreign exchange reserves and support its external account, as the government aims to build reserves to around $18 billion, equivalent to about 3.3 months of import cover, by the end of the current fiscal year. He said Pakistan remains committed to meeting all external obligations on time, noting that the recent repayment of a $1.4 billion Eurobond was completed smoothly. The minister said Pakistan&rsquo;s external financing plan is well-defined and being implemented in a disciplined manner under the IMF-supported program. He added that during his visit, he held detailed talks with Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan and senior Pakistani officials to finalize the support package. Aurangzeb expressed gratitude to the Saudi leadership, particularly Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for continued financial backing and close cooperation. He said Pakistan is receiving strong recognition from international financial institutions, including the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, as well as global investors, for its economic reforms and diplomatic engagement. The minister added that Pakistan is advancing efforts to diversify funding sources through initiatives such as the Global Medium-Term Note program and a planned Panda Bond issuance. Aurangzeb reaffirmed the government&rsquo;s commitment to macroeconomic stability, continuity of reforms, and sustained engagement with bilateral and multilateral partners.

Pakistan's Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, alongside State Bank Governor Jameel Ahmad, met Saudi Finance Minister H.E. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan in Washington on the sidelines of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings 2026.

The finance minister said the Kingdom has also agreed to extend its existing $5 billion deposit for a longer period, moving away from the earlier annual rollover arrangement.

Saudi Arabia commits $3B in additional deposits for Pakistan: Finance minister

White House confirms US Vice President JD Vance will lead delegation to Iran talks in Islamabad as President Pezeshkian confirms Iran's participation, while Pakistan PM urges restraint to sustain ceasefire and advance diplomacy.

Vance to lead US delegation as Iran confirms participation in Islamabad talks

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan&#39;s military leadership condemned attacks on Saudi Arabia&#39;s petrochemical and industrial complex, calling them an unnecessary escalation that undermines efforts to resolve the Middle East conflict diplomatically, the military&rsquo;s media wing reported on Tuesday. The statement came following the 274th Corps Commanders&#39; Conference, chaired by Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), commanders warned that the strikes carry serious consequences for ongoing peace efforts and the diplomatic environment that mediators have worked to sustain. Saudi Arabia&#39;s restraint despite repeated provocations had kept mediation viable. &ldquo;Continued attacks,&rdquo; the forum said, &ldquo;risk collapsing that process.&rdquo; The forum supported the government&#39;s efforts to end the Middle East conflict, while calling for dialogue and de-escalation in the region. The statement also noted that it affirmed Pakistan&#39;s commitment to principled diplomacy and constructive engagement. The forum also described Pakistan as a responsible regional stakeholder and active contributor to peace and stability, designating it a Regional Security Stabilizer. The conference opened with a collective prayer for soldiers, law enforcement personnel, and civilians martyred in the service of the country. The commanders paid tribute to their sacrifices, noting that their legacy forms the bedrock of Pakistan&#39;s national security. Field Marshal Asif Munir commended the armed forces for their professionalism and sustained intelligence-based counter-terrorism operations. He credited the combined effort of the government, military, and civilian population for consolidating security gains, strengthening economic resilience, and improving Pakistan&#39;s regional and global standing. On domestic security, commanders pledged to pursue and eliminate all terrorist groups operating on behalf of India and other foreign sponsors, along with their facilitators and abettors. According to the statement, Operation Ghazab lil-Haq will continue until terrorist sanctuaries are dismantled and cross-border use of Afghan territory against Pakistan ends. The forum rejected India&#39;s disinformation campaigns, baseless allegations, and false flag narratives &ndash; tactics that have been discredited internationally. The commanders also raised concern over human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, citing a recent pattern of staged encounters used to conceal extrajudicial killings. The field marshal directed commanders to maintain operational readiness, professionalism, and adaptability across all threat levels. He expressed full confidence in the armed forces&#39; ability to ensure Pakistan&#39;s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir chairs the 274th Corps Commanders’ Conference at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi on April 7, 2026. (ISPR)

Terms the strikes on Saudi petrochemical and industrial facilities as an unnecessary escalation that threatens Middle East peace efforts and regional stability, the military's media wing said.

Pakistan military condemns Saudi industrial strikes, warns of regional escalation

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have reaffirmed the need for urgent de-escalation in the Middle East, endorsing a broader diplomatic push centered on a five-point peace initiative jointly advanced by Islamabad and China.&nbsp;Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Pakistan&rsquo;s Foreign Office said in a statement.&nbsp;&ldquo;The two leaders exchanged views on the latest developments in the regional situation, emphasizing the urgent need for de-escalation and dialogue,&rdquo; the statement said.&nbsp;The discussions come amid intensifying tensions following the ongoing conflict involving Iran, which has expanded across the Gulf, disrupted energy routes and heightened risks to global economic stability.&nbsp;Both sides also reviewed the Pakistan-China five-point initiative aimed at stabilizing the region through coordinated diplomatic efforts.&nbsp;&ldquo;The Pak-China Five-Point Initiative for peace in the Gulf and Middle East was also discussed,&rdquo; the Foreign Office said.&nbsp;The initiative calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the launch of peace talks, protection of civilians and critical infrastructure, safeguarding of maritime routes including the Strait of Hormuz, and adherence to the principles of the UN Charter.&nbsp;Officials say the framework reflects growing alignment among regional actors seeking to shift the crisis toward dialogue, as military escalation continues to impact energy markets and security dynamics.&nbsp;Dar and Prince Faisal also reaffirmed longstanding bilateral ties.&nbsp;&ldquo;Both leaders reaffirmed the strong, fraternal Pakistan&ndash;Saudi Arabia relationship and agreed to remain in close contact,&rdquo; the statement added.&nbsp;The exchange highlights continued coordination between Islamabad and Riyadh as diplomatic efforts intensify to contain a conflict that is increasingly affecting both regional stability and global economic flows.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar holds telephone conversation with Saudi counterpart, discussing Iran tensions and backing the Pakistan-China five-point peace initiative, while both sides stress urgent de-escalation and continued coordination amid escalating regional crisis.

Islamabad, Riyadh discuss Iran tensions, back Pakistan-China peace initiative

KYIV: Ukraine and Saudi Arabia have signed an air defence agreement during President Volodymyr Zelensky&#39;s visit to the kingdom facing Iranian drone attacks, two senior officials told AFP on Friday. Kyiv has sought to leverage its expertise in downing Russian drones to help Gulf nations, which are being attacked with the same kind of Iranian-designed Shahed drones that Russia fires on Ukraine. &quot;The point of the agreement is that Ukraine will support them in developing all the necessary components of air defence, which they currently lack,&quot; one official said of the document which, according to another was signed on Thursday. Both spoke to AFP on the condition of anonymity. Kyiv has been using a mix of cheap drone interceptors, electronic jamming tools and anti-aircraft guns to down Russian drones fired at its cities on a nightly basis for four years. It touts its anti-drone defences as the best in the world. Ukraine has proposed swapping its interceptors for vastly more expensive air-defence missiles that Gulf countries are using to down Iranian drones. Ukraine says it needs more of them to fend off Russian missile attacks. The deal signed between Ukraine and Saudi Arabia &quot;is not only about interceptors as such, but about building a system, integrating it with other air defence components, Ukrainian experience in its use, AI, and all the other elements of data analysis needed to counter Shaheds and other drones,&quot; one of the officials said. Zelensky confirmed on social media that both countries had &quot;reached an important arrangement&quot; on defence cooperation and that he had met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during his visit. &quot;We are ready to share our expertise and systems with Saudi Arabia,&quot; Zelensky said, adding: &quot;Saudi Arabia also has capabilities that are of interest to Ukraine, and this cooperation can be mutually beneficial.&quot; He did not disclose what exactly has been agreed as part of the deal. Zelensky also met with Ukrainian anti-drone experts that have been deployed to the country since US and Israel launched strikes on Iran that spurred retaliatory drone and missile attacks from Tehran. &quot;Even in such a short time, Ukrainian experts were able to share extensive expertise,&quot; Zelensky said. &quot;Ukraine&#39;s expertise is unique, and recognised as such, and that is why everyone is so interested in our technologies and experience.&quot;

Europe

Ukraine and Saudi Arabia have signed a defence cooperation deal focused on air defence, with Kyiv offering anti-drone expertise developed against Russian attacks as Riyadh faces Iranian drone threats, in a partnership Zelensky said could benefit both countries.

Articles tagged with "Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman talks"

Pakistan Hajj operation accelerates as thousands of pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia backs Pakistan mediation, calls for restraint

Taliban ask Afghan refugees in Qatar to return home

Pakistan receives $1B from Saudi Arabia

PM Sharif shares efforts behind US-Iran ceasefire with Saudi crown prince

Saudi Arabia commits $3B in additional deposits for Pakistan: Finance minister

Vance to lead US delegation as Iran confirms participation in Islamabad talks

Pakistan military condemns Saudi industrial strikes, warns of regional escalation

Islamabad, Riyadh discuss Iran tensions, back Pakistan-China peace initiative

Ukraine, Saudi signed air defence deal: senior officials to AFP

Saudi Arabia backs Pakistan mediation, calls for restraint