ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) on a two-day visit, mainly to attend Future Investment Initiative Summit dubbed as 'Davos in desert' being held in Riyadh from October 25-27. He is undertaking visit on invitation of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. At airport, Governor of Riyadh Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz Al Saud received prime minister who was accompanied by a delegation comprising federal ministers.

Earlier in day, he departed for visit from Nur Khan Air Base.

Prior to his departure, Shehbaz Sharif in a series of tweets said present state of global economy needed "new thinking and bold vision to overcome irritants and forge new paths". Shehbaz Sharif said there were serious concerns about threat of global recession hitting economies.

Foreign Office in a statement said, "During his stay in Riyadh, prime minister will hold consultations with Saudi crown prince to review longstanding fraternal relations, with a view to further strengthening multifaceted cooperation, especially in economic field". Hundreds of delegates from around world including government officials, business leaders and even CEOs of American companies are attending two-day Future Investment Initiative summit in Riyadh. Conference will kick off on Tuesday.

 'Davos in desert' is taking place at a time when Saudi Arabia and US clashed over Riyadh's move to cut oil supplies despite request by President Biden to contrary. US officials were not invited to investment summit, according to organisers. However, 400 CEOs from different American companies will be in attendance. A strong Chinese delegation will be in Riyadh highlighting Saudi Arabia's push to diversify its options and look beyond West. Pakistan considers conference as an opportunity to draw world's attention towards climate-induced floods.

Shehbaz is visiting Saudi Arabia as Saudi crown prince is also planning to visit Pakistan next month. Prime Minister Mohammad bin Salman is expected to travel to Islamabad next month on a crucial visit Pakistan is hoping will lead to yet another financial bailout package from oil-rich Arab nation.

Published in The Daily National Courier, October, 25 2022

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