Saudi Defence Minister Prince Salman came to Islamabad on a one day official visit today. Defence Minister Khawaj Asif and Foreign Affairs Advisor Sartaj Aziz welcomed him on his arrival. The Saudi minister was scheduled to meet Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Raheel Sharif on the trip.

“He will discuss the issues of newly established 34-country counter-terror alliance and Middle East's current situation,” media reports stated upon the minister's arrival.

Saudi Defence Minister met COAS Raheel Sharif, discussing the issues of regional integration and defense cooperation. “We have close relationship with Saudi Arabia and if there is a danger to integration of Saudi Arabia, we will fully retaliate,” COAS told the Saudi Minister.

According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Army Chief said both countries have exemplary defence relations. “We have cordial relations with all Gulf and Middle Eastern states,” he said.”The stability of Saudi Arabia and other Middle East states is highly important for Pakistan,” he added.

Meanwhile the Saudi Defence Minister stated that Pakistan is very vital for Saudi Arabia. “We will support Pakistan in all issues and matters,” he emphasized.

Saudi Defence Minister then met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. According to reports they discussed the of 34-country alliance and bilateral relations. Souces said that the Saudi Minister has taken the PM into confidence with regards to the alliance.

During the meeting the PM said Pakistan will stand with Saudi Arabia in case of danger to Saudi integrity. “Islamic countries should play their part in resolving the Saudi-Iran tension,” PM said.