His visit is aimed at boosting economic ties with the rich and oil-rich country, as Pakistan is reeling under heavy debt, rising inflation and a growing energy crisis.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif had reached Medina on Thursday. Sharif’s visit is taking place at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Sharif tweeted, “I will hold extensive talks with the Saudi leadership to further strengthen the ties of our brotherhood and friendship.
He is accompanied by a delegation of around 40 people, including his family members and officials. He has been criticized by supporters of other opposition parties including former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf for traveling with such a large delegation.
Controversy escalated after Sharif visited the mosque of Prophet Muhammad in Medina.
As soon as Sharif’s delegation arrived, Pakistani pilgrims present there started shouting chor-chor at the sight of their new prime minister. Its footage has been widely shared on social media.
Saudi security guards can be seen stopping the pilgrims. In a video, a man can be seen pulling the hair of a Pakistani officer.
The episode caused widespread fury in Islamabad on Friday. At the same time, the new government condemned former Prime Minister Khan and his supporters for creating division.
Pakistan Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said, “This man (Khan) wants to ruin the society, he has divided the nation and this person is misleading the youth. ,
AP Subhash Dileep
Dileep