PM Shehbaz, Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Asim Munir perform Umrah

MAKKAH: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir performed Umrah in Makkah on Thursday, joining other members of a high-level Pakistani delegation in a deeply spiritual visit.

The Pakistani leaders arrived in Saudi Arabia as part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit and later proceeded to the holy city of Makkah to perform the religious ritual. The visit comes amid efforts to further strengthen Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations and discussions on regional developments.

Before performing Umrah, the Pakistani delegation was also granted the opportunity to make a special visit to the Holy Kaaba, according to the information released regarding the visit.

The prime minister, deputy prime minister, Field Marshal Asim Munir and members of the delegation offered prayers for the progress, prosperity and well-being of Pakistan. They also prayed for the safety and security of the Muslim Ummah and for peace across the region and the wider world.

The spiritual moment added a solemn dimension to Prime Minister Shehbaz’s Saudi visit, which also carries important diplomatic significance. His trip is taking place at a time of heightened regional tensions, with talks expected to focus on bilateral ties and developments affecting the wider region.

The Umrah performed by the Pakistani leadership reflects the close religious and longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, while the accompanying diplomatic engagements are expected to reinforce cooperation between the two countries.