ISLAMABAD: Saudi Foreign Minister Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir will arrive in Islamabad on Sunday to take Pakistani leadership into confidence over the Middle East situation and the recently formed 34-nation military alliance by the kingdom, it has been learnt.

Officials at the Foreign Office confirmed that the arriving foreign minister will meet Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday.

The Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister will also hold meetings with prime minister’s adviser Sartaj Aziz.

The officials further said that the purpose of the visit is to consult Pakistan’s leadership over joining the anti-terrorism alliance.

Saudi Arabia had earlier announced the formation of a 34-state Islamic military coalition to combat terrorism. The inclusion of Pakistan in this alliance drew a mixed response from Islamabad.

Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry said he was surprised to read the news that Saudi Arabia had named Pakistan as part of the alliance.

The Foreign Office later welcomed the formation the alliance but said Islamabad is awaiting further details in this regard to decide the extent of its participation.

Pakistan has consistently supported all regional and international efforts to combat militancy, extremism and terrorism and, to this end, has extended its full support and cooperation to international community, the FO stated.