Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif promised strong action against anyone trying to harm the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Speaking at the inauguration of the Kachhi Canal restoration in Islamabad, he emphasized that Saudi Arabia has always supported Pakistan without expecting anything in return.
The Prime Minister condemned recent comments, particularly those made by Bushra Bibi, which he believed were harmful to the longstanding friendship between the two nations. “Any attempt to sabotage this relationship will be dealt with severely,” he declared, stressing that those spreading hate were endangering Pakistan’s interests. He also criticized the sowing of division for short-term political gain, asking what kind of political agenda could justify undermining Pakistan’s strongest international ties.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also condemned the remarks, saying some political factions were actively trying to damage relations with friendly countries. Referring to Bushra Bibi’s statement, Maryam accused the individual of knowing the full consequences of her words on Pakistan’s diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia.
However, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rejected the government’s portrayal of Bushra Bibi’s remarks. PTI spokesperson Sheikh Waqas Akram clarified that she never named Saudi leadership but was instead referring to internal figures, including General Qamar Javed Bajwa, who were allegedly involved in undermining the elected government. The PTI further claimed that Bushra Bibi’s comments were taken out of context to manipulate public perception and harm Saudi-Pakistan relations. Imran Khan also defended his wife, insisting she was simply conveying his message and had no political motives.
