Marking Sharif's inaugural overseas trip following his electoral victory in February, the leaders convened on Sunday, jointly advocating for diplomatic engagement to address lingering issues, particularly the longstanding dispute over Jammu and Kashmir. A joint statement from Pakistan's foreign office and the Saudi government highlighted the imperative of dialogue to ensure regional peace and stability.

The Kashmir conflict, a perennial flashpoint between the two South Asian nations since their partition in 1947, has fueled two of their three wars. Recent years have witnessed heightened tensions, notably escalating after a 2019 suicide bombing in Kashmir, which India attributed to Pakistan-based militants, prompting retaliatory airstrikes.

India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh's recent remarks underscored the simmering animosity, stating India's intent to pursue militants into Pakistani territory, following reports alleging cross-border operations targeting militants.

Against this backdrop, India's enduring alliances in the Arab world, particularly with Saudi Arabia, have garnered attention, strengthened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Modi, poised for a third term, has cemented ties with key allies amid geopolitical shifts.

Beyond geopolitical maneuvers, economic cooperation featured prominently in discussions between Sharif and bin Salman, with plans to expedite a crucial $5 billion investment package. This financial infusion holds significant importance for Pakistan, grappling with economic challenges and striving to fulfill IMF requirements for continued foreign financing.

The dialogue between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan comes amid lingering accusations between the two nations, with Pakistan alleging Indian involvement in the killing of its citizens, a claim refuted by India as "false and malicious" propaganda.