ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: Prime Minister Imran Khan has emphasized the need for strengthening the economic dimension of the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, and taking steps for realizing the vast possibilities in the trade, investment, and energy fields.
In a meeting with the Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud who met in Islamabad on Tuesday, the prime minister extended a warm welcome to the visiting dignitary and reaffirmed deep-rooted and historic bonds between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
The prime minister conveyed cordial greetings for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques His Majesty King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Imran Khan fondly recalled his visit to Saudi Arabia in May 2021. In line with the decisions taken on the occasion, the prime minister highlighted the assiduous follow-up and stressed the need for exploring new avenues of cooperation to further deepen bilateral relations in diverse fields.
Prime Minister Imran Khan appreciated the work related to the activation of the Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council (SPSCC), which is the highest level platform designed to impart strategic direction to the development of Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations.
The prime minister also lauded the important role of Pakistan’s community in Saudi Arabia in the progress and development of the two Countries. He underlined that the strong people-to-people linkages helped building solid foundations of bilateral cooperation.
Noting the difficulties being faced by Pakistani nationals due to COVID-related travel restrictions, the prime minister underlined the importance of timely measures for facilitation of their return to Saudi Arabia.
The prime minister thanked for the administration of COVID vaccines to Pakistanis living in the Kingdom. The COVID situation in the two Countries and in South Asia was discussed.
On the situation in Afghanistan, the prime minister underscored the need for constructive engagement among the Afghan parties for securing a negotiated political settlement, which was critically important for peace and stability in the region.
Thanking the prime minister for the warm welcome accorded to the Saudi delegation, the Saudi foreign minister underscored the importance that Saudi Arabia attaches to its strong relationship with Pakistan, based on bonds of brotherhood.
Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud reaffirmed the resolve to take all possible measures to further strengthen the bilateral relationship under the strategic direction set by the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia enjoy close fraternal elations, marked by close cooperation and mutual support. Saudi Arabia is a member of the OIC Contact Group on Jammu & Kashmir and steadfastly supports the Kashmir cause.
