ISLAMABAD: Leaders of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as well as the Palestinian president this week congratulated Shehbaz Sharif on becoming the new prime minister of Pakistan.
Sharif, 70, the younger brother of former premier Nawaz Sharif, was elected as prime minister on Monday following a week-long constitutional crisis after parliament ousted Imran Khan in a no-confidence vote.
“Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman has sent a cable of congratulations to Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on the occasion of his taking oath of office,” SPA reported on Wednesday.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, also sent a cable of congratulations to Sharif.
“President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of congratulations to Shehbaz Sharif,” the Emirates News Agency said.
“His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, sent similar messages to the Pakistani Prime Minister on the occasion.”
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also congratulated Sharif on his election.
“The President extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Prime Minister on his election, wishing him success in performing his tasks, as well as in achieving the goals and aspirations of the Pakistani people,” Radio Pakistan reported. “President Abbas also expressed appreciation for Pakistan's stances in support of the Palestinian people and their just cause.”