Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Saudi delegation discussed joint projects on Friday. During their visit to Pakistan, a Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) delegation, led by Sultan Bin Abdul Rehman Al Marshad, Director General of SFD, met Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
Emphasis was placed on ongoing cooperation projects between the two countries. Prime Minister Sharif expressed his gratitude for the enduring bond between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan and appreciated the efforts of SFD in financing key sectors such as health, energy, infrastructure, education, and disaster relief.
In return, the SFD Director-General thanked the Prime Minister and the Government of Pakistan for their warm welcome and hospitality and acknowledged the honor of receiving the Hilal-e-Quaid-e-Azam National Civic Award.
A significant highlight of the discussion was the signing of financing agreements worth US$107 million for the construction of hydroelectric plants in AJK earlier in the day.
Also read: PTI Core Committee reviews impact of new IMF program on economy
PM Shehbaz emphasized the importance of these projects not only for providing clean energy but also for fighting deforestation and creating employment opportunities for the local population. The SFD CEO shared updates on ongoing projects, including the Mohmand Multipurpose Hydropower Project, the Golan Gol Hydropower Project, and the Malakand Regional Development Project.
PM Shehbaz emphasized the need to accelerate new green energy and infrastructure projects to drive economic growth and meet the needs of the local community. The Director General of SFD gave an assurance of speedy processing of these shared projects, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to support Pakistan under the leadership of the royal family. In conclusion, PM Shehbaz expressed his gratitude to the delegation and conveyed his best wishes to the royal family, especially Khadim-e-Harmain Sharifain.