Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Commit to Strengthening Economic Ties

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have pledged to enhance cooperation in crucial sectors, including the economy, agriculture, mining, and information technology. This commitment was articulated during a meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and a Saudi delegation led by Minister for Investment Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih at the Aiwan-e-Sadr on Thursday.

The discussions highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two nations, with President Zardari expressing a desire to transform bilateral ties into a robust long-term strategic and economic partnership. He emphasized that this collaboration would further solidify the bonds between the two brotherly countries.

During the meeting, Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s deep respect for King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to standing in solidarity with Saudi Arabia. He also praised Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud for his visionary leadership and commended the progress Saudi Arabia is making under its Vision 2030 initiative.

Minister Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih recognized Pakistan’s strategic geographical significance and its rich potential in natural resources and renewable energy. He announced plans for substantial Saudi investments in Pakistan’s infrastructure and mining sectors, stating that his delegation would sign 25 agreements to boost economic cooperation between the two nations.

Both sides underscored the importance of enhancing collaboration in agriculture and information technology as part of their broader economic agenda. The meeting saw the participation of key government officials, including Minister for Petroleum Senator Musadik Masood Malik, Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Minister for Privatization Abdul Aleem Khan, Minister for Interior Senator Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, alongside Saudi Ambassador in Islamabad Nawaf Saeed Al Malki.