Four-day visit focuses on bilateral ties, investment and regional peace efforts amid tensions in the Middle East.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has begun a four-day official visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Türkiye, aiming to strengthen economic cooperation and discuss regional security at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Sharif departed on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, with the first stop in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he held talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The tour, scheduled from April 15 to 18, includes bilateral meetings in the Gulf states followed by participation in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Türkiye.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, the visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar will focus on “ongoing bilateral cooperation as well as regional peace and security.” In Türkiye, Sharif will attend the fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum and hold side meetings with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other leaders.
The delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and senior advisers.
Pakistan Seeks Gulf Support Amid Economic Strain and Regional Diplomacy Push:
Pakistan, facing economic challenges, is seeking further investment and financial support from Gulf partners. Saudi Arabia has previously pledged billions in support, and discussions are expected to cover trade, energy cooperation and infrastructure projects.
Analysts say the tour reflects Islamabad’s strategy to diversify partnerships and secure economic relief while positioning Pakistan as a bridge in regional diplomacy.
The timing of the visit coincides with efforts to facilitate dialogue in the region, including momentum towards possible US-Iran negotiations. Pakistani officials have been actively engaging in mediation initiatives, with Sharif’s trip seen as part of broader efforts to promote de-escalation and stability.
In Jeddah, talks with the Saudi leadership reportedly touched on regional developments, including the situation involving Iran.
Sharif is expected to emphasise Pakistan’s role as a responsible actor advocating for peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
Sharif Engages Türkiye Forum as Diplomatic Tour Nears Conclusion:
The final stop in Türkiye will see Sharif participate in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, a major platform for international dialogue. He is scheduled to join a leaders’ panel and present Pakistan’s perspectives on global and regional issues.
Bilateral meetings with President Erdogan are anticipated to cover defence, trade and strategic partnership matters. Türkiye remains an important ally for Pakistan in multiple domains.
The tour comes as Sharif’s coalition government continues to navigate economic reforms and political challenges at home. Strengthening ties with key Muslim-majority nations is viewed as vital for both diplomatic leverage and economic recovery.
Opposition voices in Pakistan have occasionally criticised the government’s foreign policy focus, but the current visit enjoys broad institutional support.
As the prime minister continues his engagements in Doha and Antalya, observers will watch closely for any concrete outcomes on investment deals or joint statements on regional peace.