ISLAMABAD: On Thursday, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in key sectors, including the economy, agriculture, mining, and information technology.
During a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and a Saudi delegation led by Saudi Investment Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, both sides emphasized the importance of working together to secure a prosperous and peaceful future for the region and the Islamic world, according to a statement from the President’s Office.
President Zardari welcomed the delegation, highlighting the enduring and time-tested relationship between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). He expressed Pakistan’s desire to deepen bilateral ties into a long-term strategic and economic partnership, stating that such collaboration would further strengthen the bonds between the two nations.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s deep respect for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, President Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with Saudi Arabia. He also praised the visionary leadership of Crown Prince and Saudi Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.
The president commended the impressive progress Saudi Arabia has made under Vision 2030 and expressed gratitude for the Kingdom’s continued support to Pakistan in challenging times. He expressed joy in witnessing Saudi Arabia’s development and prosperity.
Saudi Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih recognized Pakistan’s strategic geographical importance and its potential in natural resources and renewable energy. He informed that Saudi Arabia plans to invest in Pakistan’s infrastructure and mining sectors, with 25 agreements expected to be signed across various sectors to boost economic cooperation between the two countries.
He expressed optimism that these agreements would usher in a new era of economic collaboration. Both sides also stressed the importance of enhancing cooperation in agriculture and information technology.
The meeting was attended by several high-ranking Pakistani officials, including Petroleum Minister Senator Musadik Masood Malik, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, Privatization Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, Interior Minister Senator Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Religious Affairs Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Senator Saleem Mandviwalla. Saudi Ambassador to Islamabad, Nawaf Saeed Al Malki, was also present.
