Saudi Ambassador, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi Discuss Enhanced Bilateral Ties

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held a key meeting with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Maliki in Islamabad, aimed at advancing bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The meeting, held at the Saudi Embassy in the Diplomatic Enclave, focused on strengthening mutual collaboration in key sectors such as security, immigration control, and anti-narcotics efforts.

Deepening Strategic Cooperation

Both dignitaries exchanged views on expanding cooperation in multiple domains, with Interior Minister Naqvi expressing gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s continued assistance in Pakistan’s economic and social development.

Minister Naqvi especially acknowledged the Kingdom’s participation in the Gulf Cooperation Council’s Anti-Narcotics Conference, stating that Pakistan looks forward to increasing coordination with Saudi authorities to tackle drug trafficking and human smuggling.

Passport Reforms and Immigration Measures

Addressing the issue of illegal immigration and human trafficking, Minister Naqvi stated that Pakistan is introducing stricter passport issuance protocols to curb misuse and ensure lawful migration. He also mentioned a clampdown on organized begging networks, asserting that law enforcement agencies are actively targeting such mafias.

Gratitude for Humanitarian Support

The Interior Minister extended special thanks to the Saudi government for its support in securing the release of a Pakistani family wrongfully detained in a narcotics case. He credited the successful return of the five family members to Pakistan to the timely intervention of Saudi authorities.

Visa-Free Entry for Saudi Nationals

Reaffirming Pakistan’s open-door policy, Naqvi emphasized that Saudi citizens do not require a visa to enter Pakistan. “Saudi nationals are always welcome in Pakistan,” he said, underlining the close brotherly bond between the two nations.

Saudi Arabia Commits to Strengthening Relations

Ambassador Al-Maliki appreciated Pakistan’s efforts and reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to further strengthen diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations. He noted that Saudi Arabia values its partnership with Pakistan and aims to explore new avenues of cooperation in the future.