Recorder report adds: Earlier, they embarked on a three-day official visit to Saudi Arabia to witness the 20-nation military exercise, besides holding talks with Saudi leadership including King Salman bin Abdul Aziz. Sources said that although the basic purpose of the visit is to witness the military exercise 'North Thunder' jointly conducted by troops from 21 Muslim countries, the Prime Minister will also hold talks with the Saudi King on issues of mutual interest as well as the Middle East situation.
Pakistan, has already welcomed the formation of 34-member Islamic military coalition led by Saudi Arabia against terrorism. The sources said the Prime Minister and the Army Chief during the visit will also discuss the matters related to the coalition.
The sources further said that Pakistan is ready to contribute intelligence sharing, technical training to the troops and provision of arms.
According to Foreign Office spokesperson Nafees Zakaria, a large number of other heads of state and government have also been invited to witness the ongoing military exercise 'North Thunder' and its closing ceremony. Ground, air and naval forces from 21 Muslim countries including Pakistan, Malaysia, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Sudan and some other Muslim countries are participating in the maneuvers with an objective to improve training in response to the threat posed by terrorist groups. He said that Pakistan has consistently supported all regional and international efforts to combat militancy, extremism and terrorism and, to this end, has extended its full support and cooperation to the international community.
"Pakistan enjoys cordial and brotherly relations with Saudi Arabia, which are characterised by strong bonds of affinity, mutual respect and solidarity, and draw strength from shared historical, cultural and Islamic values," Zakaria said, adding both countries enjoy a multi-faceted cooperation, in various fields, including defence and counter-terrorism.
As is well known, he added, that the people of Pakistan hold the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in high esteem. "The government of Pakistan has affirmed that we will always stand shoulder to shoulder with our Saudi brethren against any threat to territorial integrity and sovereignty of Saudi Arabia," he added.