Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Deliberate on Entire Gamut of Relations -Discuss Indian Atrocities in Kashmir

Islamabad;26 Dec 2019-Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, today. The Foreign Minister warmly welcomed the Saudi Foreign Minister on his maiden visit to Pakistan.

During the detailed deliberations, the entire gamut of bilateral relations was covered and views were exchanged on regional developments. The Foreign Minister underscored that the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is deep-rooted and long-standing.

He recalled his earlier visit to the Kingdom on 10-11 December 2019 and thanked the warm hospitality extended to him. He focused on issues of mutual interest including bilateral trade and economic cooperation, security and defence cooperation, parliamentary exchanges and increased trade relations.

The Foreign Minister also highlighted the importance of Saudi investments, particularly in the petrochemical, mining & minerals and energy sectors. He also expressed the hope that the Road-to-Makkah project to facilitate Hajis from Pakistan will be extended to other cities of Pakistan. The Foreign Minister dilated in detail on the situation in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJ&K) in the aftermath of India’s unilateral and illegal actions of 5 August 2019.

He also highlighted the Indian Government’s actions with regard to CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act 2019) and NRC (National Register of Citizens) and the systematic targeting of minorities in India, particularly Muslims. The Foreign Minister thanked the Kingdom’s support in OIC Contact Group on Jammu & Kashmir.

Prince Faisal underscored the importance that Saudi Arabia attaches to its fraternal and strategic relationship with Pakistan. He conveyed the Saudi leadership’s deep appreciation for the role played by Pakistan in maintaining regional peace and stability.

Adding that Saudi Arabia was committed to a strong, prosperous and successful Pakistan, he reaffirmed the commitment of Saudi leadership in cementing ties with Pakistan in all fields. The two Foreign Ministers discussed OIC’s role in the advancement of the cause of Kashmir. The two Foreign Ministers had earlier met in Riyadh.

The visit of the Saudi Foreign Minister to Pakistan is a reflection of the growing bilateral relations and part of regular exchange of high-level visits between the two fraternal countries. Foreign Minister hosted a lunch in honour of the visiting dignitary. Prince Faisal also called on the Prime Minister.