MAKKAH:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, along with senior cabinet members, performed Umrah late Thursday night during their official visit to Saudi Arabia.
The visit, held on the invitation of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reflects the deepening partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, particularly in light of growing economic and regional cooperation.
In a rare and symbolic gesture, the door of the Holy Kaaba was opened specifically for the Pakistani delegation. Inside the sacred sanctuary, the leaders offered Nawafil (voluntary prayers) and expressed their gratitude for the perceived success of “Bunyan-ul-Marsoos” — a term symbolising national unity, strength, and collective resilience.
During their pilgrimage, the delegation offered special prayers for Pakistan’s continued economic growth, social development, and internal stability. They also prayed for the welfare of Muslim communities facing oppression globally, with special prayers for the people of Kashmir and Palestine.
The prime minister was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar.
