Saudi crown prince, Pakistani PM sign joint strategic defense agreement

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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sign a joint strategic defense agreement in Riyadh on Wednesday. (SPA)
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Updated 17 September 2025
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Saudi crown prince, Pakistani PM sign joint strategic defense agreement

  • Agreement stipulates that any aggression against either country is an aggression against both
  • It aims to develop aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and enhance joint deterrence against any aggression

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed a joint strategic defense agreement in Riyadh on Wednesday, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The agreement comes within the framework of the two countries’ efforts to enhance their security and achieve security and peace in the region and the world.

It aims to develop aspects of defense cooperation between the two countries and enhance joint deterrence against any aggression. This agreement stipulates that any aggression against either country is an aggression against both, SPA said. 

The prime minister arrived in Riyadh earlier on Wednesday for a state visit, accompanied by a high-level delegation.

An official reception was held in honor of the prime minister and the two leaders held a session of talks. Sharif asked that his greetings and best wishes be conveyed to King Salman.

The two sides reviewed the historic and strategic relations between their countries and a number of topics of common interest.

Sharif expressed his thanks and appreciation to the crown prince for the warm welcome and generous hospitality that he received. He extended his best regards to the Saudi leadership and people, wishing them further progress, prosperity, and prosperity.


Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. (SPA)
Updated 55 min 10 sec ago
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Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

  • Festival now established as a premier annual event

AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.

The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency. 

Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.

FASTFACT

In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.

In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.

This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship. 

As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.

The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.

The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.