Islamabad, Rabi'II 15, 1435, Feb 15, 2014, SPA -- Crown Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense, started today an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan at invitation of the Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif. In a statement to Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Crown Prince said that this visit came within the framework of the strong historical relations between the two countries, stressing the desire of the two leaderships to deepen and develop the bilateral relations in the interest of the two peoples and countries. He highlighted that this visit aims to enhance consultation and coordination towards issues of common interest at regional and international levels between the two countries. Crown Prince Salman added that his visit will promote the roles of the two countries in maintain the security, stability and development at regional and international arenas, particularly Islamic issues and role of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The Crown Prince expressed his happiness for paying this important visit to Pakistan and will convey greetings of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain and Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, wishing all prosperity and welfare for the Pakistani people. --SPA 19:52 LOCAL TIME 16:52 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/1198859