ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday expressed condolences to Saudi Arabia after 14 Saudi nationals were killed in a helicopter crash in Ras Tanura, saying Pakistan stood in solidarity with the kingdom in its hour of grief.

In a statement on X, the prime minister said he was "deeply saddened" by the tragedy and, on behalf of the people and government of Pakistan, extended heartfelt condolences to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the bereaved families, and the people of Saudi Arabia.

"Pakistan stands in full solidarity with our Saudi brothers and sisters in this hour of grief," the PM said.

The helicopter, belonging to Saudi state oil giant Aramco, crashed in Ras Tanura in the kingdom's Eastern Province, killing all on board. Saudi authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.

The prime minister's message followed a telephone call on Sunday between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, during which Dar conveyed condolences on behalf of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the government, and the people of Pakistan.

According to Pakistan's Foreign Office, Prince Faisal thanked Dar for the condolence message and appreciated Pakistan's "brotherly gesture."

The two foreign ministers also reviewed recent regional developments and expressed concern over the evolving situation. Dar reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to promoting regional peace in line with the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, while Prince Faisal informed him of his plans to visit Pakistan at a mutually convenient date, the Foreign Office said.

Saudi crash

Pakistan PM offers condolences after Saudi helicopter crash kills 14