ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have agreed to remain in close contact and meet soon as tensions continue to escalate across the region.
The understanding was reached during a telephone conversation between the two leaders on Sunday, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.
Shehbaz condemns Houthi attacks
During the conversation, Prime Minister Shehbaz strongly condemned recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia’s civilian and economic infrastructure.
He expressed Pakistan’s complete solidarity with the Saudi leadership and people, warning that such attacks threatened regional peace and security and could further disrupt global economic activity and energy supplies.
The prime minister also said that he, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar would continue efforts to reduce tensions and promote peace and stability in the region.
Shehbaz also praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for what he described as his wise and sagacious leadership during the ongoing crisis.
The prime minister conveyed his warm wishes and respectful regards to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman appreciated Pakistan for its steadfast support for Saudi Arabia and its continued efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
Saudi pipeline attack raises concerns
The telephone conversation came a day after Saudi Arabia temporarily shut its East-West oil pipeline following an aerial attack on the vital energy route.
Saudi authorities said the 1,200-kilometre pipeline was closed as a precaution after a drone attack that both Baghdad and Riyadh said originated in Iraq.
The pipeline has been a crucial outlet for Saudi oil exports over the past six months as the Strait of Hormuz has remained largely disrupted amid the wider regional conflict.
The pipeline has been carrying an estimated 4 million to 5 million barrels of oil per day, equivalent to around 4% to 5% of global supply.
Pakistan steps up efforts to end Middle East conflict, says foreign secretary
No group immediately claimed responsibility for the pipeline attack. Satellite imagery showed black smoke rising from an area south of Medina, while the Saudi Foreign Ministry said the incident caused injuries and damage that was still being assessed.
US President Donald Trump, who was visiting Ireland, said Iran was probably responsible for the attack.
Meanwhile, Saudi Civil Defence said on Saturday that a projectile fired by the Houthis injured two people in the Jazan region and damaged several buildings, including a mosque.
Saudi Arabia has so far refrained from retaliatory action following a request from the Iraqi prime minister, according to the Saudi Foreign Ministry.
Against the backdrop of the escalating crisis, the agreement between Prime Minister Shehbaz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to maintain close contact and meet at an early date underscores the two countries’ continued coordination over regional security and efforts to prevent further escalation.
