Downplaying the speculations linking the Saudi Foreign Minister Saud Al-Faisal's visit with the reported international efforts to ensure safe passage to General Pervez Musharraf (Retd) in the high treason case, the spokesperson insisted that since it is the first high-level visit by any Saudi dignitary following the formation of the new government, and it was scheduled a month earlier.

When asked about the agenda of his visit, she said the agenda will be shared with the media later. However, speculations were rife in the federal capital that the upcoming visit of the Saudi Foreign Minister is taking place at a time when the special court's hearing regarding high treason charges against General Pervez Musharraf (Retd) is at a critical stage. In 2000, the Saudi government, through Prince Mukran, brokered a deal between the then Chief Executive of the country General Pervez Musharraf and Nawaz Sharif before sending the latter to Saudi Arabia in exile. However, sources said that Saud Al-Faisal will discuss ways to further expand Pak-Saudi ties and enhance bilateral co-operation in various fields during his visit to the country.

During his stay in Islamabad, they said that the Saudi Foreign Minister will hold detailed discussions on a wide range of issues pertaining to mutual interests with Pakistan leadership including Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Mamnoon Hussain. The sources further said that the Afghan reconciliation process may also come under discussion, besides efforts for resumption of the suspended US-Taliban dialogue. They said that regional situation particularly Afghanistan and post US withdrawal would also be part of the agenda of the meetings of the Saudi Foreign Minister with Pakistani leadership.

Author: Ali Hussain

Source: Business Recorder