Exchange of Pak-Saudi parliamentary delegations to further deepen bilateral ties: President

F.P. Report

ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi on Wednesday expressed his satisfaction at the parliamentary cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and hoped that exchange of delegations would further deepen the collaboration.

He was talking to Chairman, Shura Council of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Abdullah Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Sheikh, who called on him here.

The President said that Pakistan attached utmost importance to its relations with Saudi Arabia. Based on the solid foundations of shared faith, culture and heritage, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia enjoy cordial and time-tested friendship, he added.

He also expressed pleasure at the steady progress of bilateral relations following the exchange of high-level visits and recalled the highly successful visit of the Crown Prince to Pakistan.

The President hoped that the launching of Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council will pave the way for a tangible and result-oriented political, economic and strategic engagement between the two brotherly countries.

He also conveyed Pakistan’s gratitude for the economic support of Saudi Arabia.

Due to their durable and comprehensive partnership, the two countries collaborate on multilateral issues and fora, he added.

The President appreciated Saudi Arabia’s decision to increase Hajj quota to 2,00,000 and to drastically reduce visit-visa fee for Pakistani nationals.

Underscoring the contribution of Pakistani community in the socio-economic development of the Kingdom, the President also hoped for a greater share for Pakistani manpower in Saudi job market.

He also conveyed best wishes and greetings to King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.

Chairman, Shura Council of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Abdullah Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Sheikh underlined the need for further enhancing cooperation in various fields and urged both sides to continue their endeavors in this regard.