Azim Mian

NEW YORK: The announcement of a mutual defence agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia has taken both supporters and critics by surprise, adding a new dimension to the two countries’ already close ties. Pakistan has a long history of military cooperation with Saudi Arabia, including deployments and advisory roles, but this pact marks a significant escalation in their partnership.

NEW YORK: Arrangements are going on to finalise accommodations, schedules and meetings for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his delegation for their visit to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Sources indicate this year’s delegation is considerably larger than in previous years’, requiring rooms to be booked in two of New York’s upscale hotels. The daily rate for a standard room exceeds $1,000, with additional costs for family suites and meeting rooms.

WASHINGTON: In what is being viewed as a significant diplomatic development for Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is likely to hold a meeting with United States President Donald Trump on September 25, sources said on Tuesday. The insiders said that the meeting, expected on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, will also be attended by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir.