KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 — Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein is currently in Saudi Arabia for a five-day working visit since June 30.

The ministry in a statement today said during the visit Hishammuddin would have an audience with King Salman Abdulaziz Al-Saud and discuss on a broad spectrum of issues that are strategic and important to both countries, as well as current and emerging trends in the ever changing global security landscape.

"Hishammuddin and the delegation also attended an Iftar hosted by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman Abdulaziz Al-Saud. The audiences and Iftar was attended by Prince Mansour bin Saud bin Abdulaziz; Prince Talal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz; Prince Fahd bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Musaed; Prince Sattam bin Saud bin Abdulaziz and a number of princes.

Hishammuddin will also be meeting the Crown Prince, the First Deputy Prime Minister and the Interior Minister Muhammad bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

During the meeting, they are expected to review the bilateral relations and discuss ways to enhance the existing relationship in all fields plus the latest developments in the Middle East and efforts exerted by both countries.

"This working visit also augurs well for bilateral relations between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia as it will help boost efforts to further enhance and strengthen existing bilateral relations and cooperation between both countries,” the statement said.

Hishammuddin will also be meeting the Deputy Crown Prince, Second Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

"The meeting reaffirms the strong ties between Malaysia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in areas of defence. It is our great hope that these strong ties, built on equal partnership and mutual trust, will lead to mutual benefits for both our nations especially in terms of maintaining regional peace and stability,” it added. — Bernama