Sharif hopes Gulf crisis would be resolved soon

Islamabad:  Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has met Saudi King Salman and expressed hope that the current crisis in the Gulf countries involving Qatar will be resolved soon.

Sharif, who returned on Tuesday after a short visit to the Gulf kingdom, on Sunday held talks with King Salman in Jeddah, which was focused on the “emerging situation in the Gulf countries”, Radio Pakistan reported.

The prime minister expressed hope that the current impasse in the Gulf countries will be resolved soon in the best interest of the Muslim community. Qatar has found itself isolated following a decision by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and others to cut ties with Doha over its support for “terrorism”, a charge the tiny Gulf emirate vehemently rejects.

Sharif also reaffirmed the strong commitment of the people and government of Pakistan to territorial integrity and sovereignty of Saudi Arabia and safety of the two grand mosques in Mecca and Media.

While expressing solidarity with Saudi Arabia, Sharif said the Gulf kingdom has a very special place in the hearts of Pakistanis. Salman thanked Sharif for his visit and appreciated the exceptional success of Pakistan against extremism and terrorism. He also reiterated strong commitment and support of the Gulf-nation for all issues of interest for Pakistan, including matters of national security.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Advisor on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz. (PTI)