Islamabad, In a significant meeting at Aiwan-i-Sadr, Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirmed their commitment to bolster bilateral ties and cooperation across various sectors for the mutual benefit of both nations. This decision emerged from discussions between President Asif Ali Zardari and the visiting Saudi Defence Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, alongside other high-ranking officials from both countries.
According to Press Information Department, the high-level meeting also saw the presence of Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Federal Minister for Defence and Defense Production Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, and the Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki. President Zardari underscored the deep-rooted fraternal relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the importance of these ties and the shared ambition to enhance cooperation in various fields. He expressed gratitude towards the Kingdom for its support during challenging times and praised the leadership of King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud for their vision of progress for Saudi Arabia.
From the Saudi side, Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman highlighted the long-standing, strategic, and defence cooperation between the two countries. He advocated for continued collaboration and mutual support to deepen these bilateral relations further. The minister also stressed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to regional prosperity and its success in fostering economic integration.
The meeting was further marked by a Special Investiture Ceremony, where President Zardari bestowed the Nishan-i-Pakistan award upon Prince Khalid bin Salman in recognition of his contributions to strengthening Pakistan-Saudi cooperation and promoting regional peace. The President lauded the Prince for his role in enhancing defence ties between the nations.
This high-profile engagement underscores the strong, historical bonds between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, setting the stage for future collaboration aimed at mutual development and stability in the region.